Design – Architectural Design
The initial concept design development of the Singapore
Flyer has been spearheaded by Dr. Kisho Kurokawa of Japan and DP
Architects, Singapore.
Renowned for his fascinating architectural concepts, Dr. Kisho Kurokawa delights in fusing other cultures into his designs. His seamless flow of aesthetic features brings simplicity and harmony into place. Transcending time and space, Dr. Kisho Kurokawa's designs are unique and everlasting.
DP Architects, Singapore was also one of the winning teams for the design of The Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay. Founded in 1967, the firm is mindful about creating architecture which reflects the human spirit and experiences. The firm aspires to contribute to the Asian region as well as to help Singapore transform into a City of Excellence in the 21st century.
Inspiration for the Singapore Flyer sparked from
national icons like the Eiffel Tower and the London
Eye, but constructing an 'Iconic Viewing Platform' in Singapore
proved to be a challenge.
Having to erect the Flyer from a vertical position was a complicated task as gravity loads acting in the plane of the wheel means cables at different positions have different tensions. The Singaporean weather and sudden pick up in wind speed also means that the dynamic performance of the wheel needs to be able to cater to occupant comfort under high winds.
To overcome these challenges, architects and engineers combined their expertise and fashioned the avant-garde structural design unique to the Singapore Flyer. A thin two dimensional 'ladder truss' rim is used instead of the usual three-dimensional triangular rim. By using a wider hub to create more acute cable angles, there is greater efficiency in resisting lateral loads and providing the rim for buckling in compression.
Stabilized capsules are also kept level by mechanical means, providing a stable platform which allows people to stand and walk about. This emphasis on providing the end users with quality and the experience of a lifetime has been crucial in the conceptualization and construction of the Singapore Flyer.
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