Overview: ORION Conic™ Tensile Structures
The high centre point of ORION Conic™ tensile structures is a striking aesthetic form that also creates a sense of spaciousness under the canopy, while the low perimeter provides great all-day cover without compromising weather or sun shade protection. An immensely strong single column support at the centre of each cone provides excellent usability within the covered area and a cable or fixed edge perimeter accommodates the canopy rainwater management.
ORION Conic™ tensile structures can be used to create additional dining space for schools, provide playground shelter or present a stylish entrance canopy, for example. However, the design flexibility offers a diverse potential application of these outdoor shelters that is not just limited to canopies for education.
The flexible design aesthetic and distinctive elegant form of a tensile structure results from the characteristics unique to membrane tension. In daylight, fabric membrane translucency provides diffused, naturally lit spaces, while at night, artificial lighting can be used to create an ambient exterior luminescence. The lightweight nature of tensile membrane design requires less structural steel compared with conventional roof coverings, enabling clear spans of column-free space.
The durability and longevity of tensile membrane design is well proven with canopy structures installed in climates ranging from arctic cold to scorching desert heat. ORION™ fabric membrane manufacture complies with all relevant national regulations for fire resistance. ORION™ tensile structures use a PVC-based architectural fabric manufactured with a PVDF self-cleaning top lacquering layer. These advanced fabrics have a lifespan equal to alternative covering materials with a 25-year design life, covered by a manufacturer-backed warranty for up to 10 years dependent on specification.
Case studies of tensile structure canopies in Kent include Herne Bay Pier, Skinners Kent Academy and Kent College.
Learn more about FTO SERIES Architectural PVC for ORION Canopies.