Mercer Corporate Park – Building 2 (Proposed Canopy)

Project Details

This project involves the structural analysis, design, and connection engineering for five distinct types of prefabricated cantilevered aluminum canopies. The scope covers a comprehensive engineering solution for the canopy roof framing, which includes specialized gutter fascia, roof pans, and structural aluminum tube members. The primary structural assembly utilizes high-strength 6061-T6 and 6063-T6 aluminum alloy framing. These units are integrated with A36 structural steel baseplates and secured to insulated tilt-up concrete wall panels using 3/4″ diameter high-strength bolts to ensure a durable and stable installation. The design process involved rigorous structural modeling to ensure the canopies safely withstand environmental and lateral loads. Structural elements were engineered in compliance with the International Building Code (IBC 2024), ASCE 7-22, and the Aluminum Design Manual (ADM 2020). The system is designed to resist a ground snow load of 30 psf and wind speeds of approximately 113-116 MPH under Risk Category II and Exposure Category B. Connection designs were specifically verified for stress and strain equilibrium using finite element analysis, ensuring all anchors and welds meet a 3,000 psi concrete compressive strength requirement.

Role

Structural Engineer/Designer

Services Provided

The scope of services included the preparation of structural analysis and design calculations for the proposed aluminum canopy systems. The work involved determining the governing gravity, wind uplift, and lateral wind loads for each canopy type in accordance with the applicable building code. Structural analysis and design checks were performed for the aluminum canopy framing members, including fascia beams, aluminum tubes, roof pans, and supporting elements, to verify their adequacy under applicable service and strength load combinations. The services also included verification of canopy-to-building load transfer, evaluation of overall structural stability, and calculation of anchorage and connection demands, including thru-bolts and base plate forces transferred to the supporting concrete wall. A signed and sealed structural calculation package was prepared for permit review and approval by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). In addition, structural drawings were developed to provide typical structural notes, design load criteria, connection force callouts, and clarifying sketches necessary to communicate the design intent and support the structural calculations.