Considering the Burn

From the beginning, I have been adamant that the Temple burn in such a way that it will conclude with the tree-like structure splitting open in four quadrants. In thinking about the most recent designs, I couldn't figure out how to handle the three distinct levels. If the entire tree splits, the topmost branches—at some 30' (9m) tall would have a tremendous amount of momentum that would tend to fling burning lumber into the crowd. For the first level, this is not an issue as it is only about 10' (3m) high so the momentum outward would be substantially smaller.

For now, I am considering the idea of the first level falling outward while the upper levels fall straight down. To avoid a tall portion of the Temple landing upright in the ground, the supports from the first to second level would fold outward: they would tie the center of the second level to an anchor on each section of the four splitting parts of the first level. The second level itself (likewise the third level) would be a solid structure that would not be designed to fall outward like the first level. Thus, the support for the second level would split outward with the quadrants of the first level while the second and third levels would tend to fall straight downward. Although the support from the second to the third level would be solid, being weakened by the fire and the direct 20' (6m) drop will at least weaken it severely, if not demolish it instantly.

Loading

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.