TREE COLUMNS

Resma, Ma. Ronnica

Vargas, Emmelou
TREE COLUMNS
Branching structures are
usually referred to as tree-like
structures/columns. However,
their action cannot be
compared with that of a natural
tree.
While the branches of a tree are
under bending stress, bending
forces are systematically
avoided in technically
constructed tree-like structures.
The inner structure of the tree-
like columns represents a type
of framework that is unique in
the construction industry.
 STRUCTURAL DETAILS
Tree models are based on
branching structures of
internodes (branches) and
nodes (bifurcations).

The branch is defined

physically by its length (l),
diameter (d), start point (s) and
direction (l). The bifurcation is
characterized by the angles ji
(i=1, 2) between the axes of the
parent branch and the child
branches and by the ratios in
length, li/l0, and diameter, di/d0
between the parent branch and
the child branches.
 SYSTEM TYPES
The umbel system can be
visualized as a special case
of the tree-like system,
where a number of short
branch stalks (called
pedicles), which are equal in
length, spread from a
common point, somewhat
like umbrella ribs.
Compound umbel
system, each branch
of the umbel
terminating in a
smaller umbel
 ARCHITECTURAL EXAMPLE
Stuttgart Airport - Germany
 ARCHITECTURAL EXAMPLE
Beaverton Library- Oregon, USA
 ARCHITECTURAL EXAMPLE
Sagrada Familia – Barcelona, Spain
 CONSTRUCTION
• The branching column was fabricated using
hollow structural sections (HSS pipe) in 3 sizes to
accommodate the capabilities of the fabricator.
Joined sections were sleeved, and all contact
points on the pipes, in section and longitudinally,
were continuous welded. The tree column itself
was fabricated in two sections, top and base, with
a staggered, sleeved joint about mid height. The
hoisting mast formed a third section. The overall
height is 11.7 m. Figure 7. shows the fabrication
and a detail from an upper branch connection.
 uses
• as the main structural support for the roof
loads