OUR PROCESS
CONCEPT DESIGN
Design Department (DD) at Span shades works to elevate the level of service to our clientele by using the latest available software’s in 3D design/Detailing & animation. This comprehensive visualization capability enables clients to better understand our proposed solution to their requirements. Our DD consist of structural design Engineers, detailers, membrane specialists etc. who understand the fundamentals of shape, form and function which enables the client to gain a unique insight into the 3D version of a concept suitable for construction. The 3D version of the final product is the starting point for converting the concept to reality. The DD also plays a significant role in the preparation of a 3D model of a structure for Engineering Analysis and determine if the structure is stable, shaped correctly, over-stressed or in a position to pond. Lastly, it also provides our Estimation department with sufficient information on the sizing and weight of the elements which in turn leads to a cost-effective estimate in our proposal. Our DD differentiates us from our competitors by giving our company the edge and our clients the advantage.
CONNECTION COMPONENTS
One of the many advantages of fabric structures is how few components are required to create a structure: the primary structural support system, the membrane and most importantly the fittings and hardware used to tension the entire structure. Membrane plates are custom designed plates used to link the membrane to the support system. They are the key to a successful tension membrane structure. Cables create the edge of tension membrane structures. Along the perimeter. They are called catenaries, along the underside of the membrane they are called the radial or ridge cable, and over the top of the membrane, they are called valley or safety cables. Catenary cables are the most visible and are formed along the perimeter stretching from mast of mast. They are installed inside a pocket in the membrane or supported along the edge with cable straps and usually terminate with a threaded rod or forked clevis which is a cast pin connected fitting that is attached to the membrane plates. Fabric structure hardware consists mostly of parts made for the yachting, bridge building, rigging, and mountain climbing industries. Shackles, turnbuckles and toggles are just a few of the hardware choices available to link the membrane and primary structural support. Shackles are U-shaped pieces of hardware used in the rigging industry that require a bolted connection with movement in various directions. Turnbuckles and toggles are threaded components used to adjust the length of ropes, wire, roads, and membrane plates.
CONSTRUCTION
The custom tensile fabric shade structure that we design and build at Span shades require experts in specialty construction in order to achieve the ultimate results. We offer the most experienced well-trained and dedicated construction professionals available in our industry. We do very little outsourcing and our construction teams have many years of experience in proper foundation and footing construction, steel erection and fabric installation. We offer the ultimate in quality construction with projects built by the best and built to last.
FABRIC FABRICATION
At the core of all our modular and custom tensile membrane structures are the fabrics that we utilize to create some of the most architecturally innovative and aesthetically appealing fabric structures in the world. We use the best materials available including vinyl coated polyester (PVC) Teflon coated fiberglass (PTFE) and HDPE - a high density polyethylene mesh which can block out up to 98% of the suns harmful UV Rays. The fabrics are selected to meet the specific project requirements as well as our clients individual needs and desires. We offer a variety of materials with varying degrees of translucency, light reflectivity. UV and weather protection, and non-combustibility. Certain fabrics offer self cleaning surfaces and all are easily maintained to preserve their appearance and ensure a long life. Our covers and tension structure are fabricated utilizing the strongest seams applicable to the individual fabric –this includes heat sealing. Radio frequency (RF) sealing and sewn seams utilizing thread which provides the longest life expectancy in the industry. Our fabric pattering, sewing and cutting crews utilize the most advanced computer controlled cutting technology available which provides precision load analysis and tight tolerance.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
The management Department of Span shades was created to handle the over increasing size and value of our many projects. Project Management utilize sophisticated organizational software to ensure that all or projects are completed in the most cost-effective, timely and efficient manner. We strive to meet or exceed expectations with every client and on every project. Once a project has been sold and handed over to the proposal Manager, Project Management is then responsible for taking control of all aspects of the job. Projects managers create schedules, handle submittals and approvals, and maintain comprehensive communication logs, and manage costs and logistics, all in order to see the project through to successful completion. By taking ownership of the job, our project Managers are able to guide the job through all critical phases to create a project that our customers regards as being the finest available anywhere in the world. As Span shades continues to design and build more large scale Imaginative and innovative projects, Projects Management will continue to grow and bring great into reality.