Inverted Umbrella-type Hyperbolic Paraboloid Reinforced Concrete Shell Structures (Inverted Umbrella HP RC Shells)

Abstract

Abstract The inverted umbrella HP RC shells became a predominant type of single column structure during the 1950s and 1960s. The paper provides a historical overview of architecturally most attractive inverted umbrella HP structures made out of reinforced concrete. It starts in the second quarter of the 20th century with the world’s oldest umbrella structures, designed by three pioneers: F. Aimond, A. Williams and K. Hruban. The most notable master in designing was F. Candela, as he constructed a number of this structures in Mexico between 1953-68. During the 1960s this form became widely used all over the Western world but suddenly disappear after 1975. The results of the paper are presented in three figures where the inverted umbrella HP RC shells are analysed according to several criteria (number of built elements, roof dimensions with shapes, use of the structures in relationship to year of completion). The similarities and differences between elements of the analysed buildings are compared and discussed. In the conclusion, the advantages and disadvantages are briefly exposed.