QUT Walkbridge
This project was challenging in design and manufacture. Our customer, McNab Construction, working directly with the UNI, had requests that required out-of-the-norm`design thinking from us.
The first point of call was working with a leading design firm (Conrad Gargett) for the initial concept. We were chosen by Conrad Gargett from our past experience and similar projects we had designed using PAIGE STAINLESS HEELGUARD ®.
For this project we decided to run the wedge wire at 45 deg to the walking direction so as to NOT create parallel lines on the approach and exit from the walk bridge, this was to lessen the effect of eye orientation to a mass of continual straight lines.
We also fitted a series of modesty`panels under the walk bridge to cater for the culturally diverse range of students at the university, such as those who adhere to particular dress codes aligned with their religion. These modesty panels stopped indiscrete viewing from underneath as people used the walk bridge.
The walk bridge is designed using panel sizes from about 1500mm sq. Logistics in getting the panels up 6 stories brought about many challenges during construction, as we had to work with surrounding trades and available access points.
Material choice was grade 316 stainless steel for longevity and insurance against any adverse conditions the UNI may initiate in the future. The design also enables each individual wedge wire heelguard panel to be removed independently should circumstance require this at a later date. Some 24 panels of PAIGE STAINLESS HEELGUARD ® were used in the construction of the walk bridge, linking the sports arena to the main stand UNI grounds.
Precision fitting was of paramount importance to creating a seamless transition from the adjacent surfaces and substrate – laser and a good eye were used during the construction / fitting process.
Being a functioning venue, we worked with the UNI so access was always achievable during the fitting process, most of which was performed in after-hour time allocations given to us from the UNI.
The result is an iconic section of architecture utilising PAIGE STAINLESS HEELGUARD ® to create the effect and functionality of an advance walk bridge in one of Australia’s leading universities.
