Having recently launched their new aluminium space frame product, Truss UK have announced that they have supplied the National Theatre (NT) with a large OBLIK system.
OBLIK is a modular space frame system consisting of only three main component types, the largest of weighing in at less than 16kg. The system is lightweight, compact for transport and storage and simple to erect using conventional fixings (nuts and bolts) to create complex aluminium structures that are extremely strong.
Truss UK director Paul Jordan says, "The OBLIK space frame system was deployed in the grid of the NT's Lyttelton theatre and is suspended from the underside of the existing infra structure of the building, fitted in the void between the grid and the roof."
Paul Jordan adds, "Each of the OBLIK frames measures 14m long by 3m wide and weighs only 1,380kg, with all the members in the top and bottom plane of the structure having a load-bearing capacity. After installation each of the OBLIK frames were tested with 9.9 tonnes of live load and performed as it was intended."
Steve Colley, Head of Automation and Rigging at the NT says, "We chose OBLIK for the Lyttleton theatre as this system gives us the flexibility to rig new shows quickly, rigging directly from the OBLIK space frame without having to bridle from the roof structure or move grid stands and point hoists round on the grid for the show setup."
Paul Jordan adds, "Rather than show loads being supported by the conventional theatre grid they are now supported fully by the roof structure with the space frame distributing and spreading the loads throughout the system and back to the whole building structure rather than imposing larger point loads on it."
Tony Dickson concludes, "OBLIK can be used for so much more than lightweight mother grids like at the NT. We also have decking and hand railing components to create suspended walkways, platforms, stages, lighting rigs, ground- supported roof systems and even high load columns."
(Jim Evans)
