Project Overview:
Develop a free-standing sphere to house the Autostadt Dome Projection Theater 

Customer:
Volkswagen

Services Performed:
Provided design, analysis, and manufacturing support for development of a large “floating” dome.

Structural Analysis:

• Generated a finite element model of the outer and inner domes that comprise the Dual Static Dome System
• Performed quasi-static analysis for gravity loading
• Performed buckling analysis and deflection study
• Provided global and detailed stress analysis including weld and mechanical joints
• Complied with the 1997 Uniform Building Code and Eurocodes 3 & 9

Engineering Design:

• Developed the floor supports, as the only supports are at the theater’s four entrance ramps
• Designed reinforcements as analysis required