Structural analysis of infinite energy ii Mariko Mori in Toronto

Infinite Energy, Mariko Mori´s sculpture, is a 12 m-high helix generated from an isosceles triangle parallel to its axis and ascending through it. To bring this concept to the physical world, it took a lot of hours of engineering and manufacturing work to materialize this stunning sculpture.

The material for the manufacture of the 13 interconnected modules it was Polymer Reinforced with Fiberglass. AR2V calculated the exact number of glass fiber sheets and their orientation, seeking to reduce the amount of material needed and optimizing its manufacturing process, always in accordance with the structural safety of the piece.

These modules were filled with high density foam to achieve the necessary rigidity to avoid excessive deformation. The metallic connections between modules were designed based on solutions used in aerospace engineering, where composite materials are commonly used. These joints had to be able to support and transmit the forces between modules through a simple mounting system that facilitated their assembly.

The auxiliary metallic structures that allow hoisting and fixing the piece to the ceiling in its final position were also designed and calculated. For all this, several Finite Element Models (FEM) were made that allowed to group the resistant phenomena developed in the different parts of the piece.

Finally, we made 2D and three-dimensional models where the place of each material was exactly indicated, the geometry of each component to make a correct hoisting of the sculpture.

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Vídeo sobre Infinite Energy II