The Netherlands is widely known for its thriving bicycle culture and innovative design, so it's no surprise they've crafted this stunning suspended bicycle roundabout. Like a flying saucer, the 'Hovenring' appears to 'float' over a busy crossroad at the edge of Eindhoven, an effect accentuated by LED lights shining from below. Tailor-made by engineering specialist’s ipv Delft, the iconic steel bridge takes sustainable transportation to a whole new level - quite literarily.
The Hovenring is situated above a busy highway intersection between Eindhoven, Veldhoven and Meerhoven and it’s name means ‘Ring of the Hovens’ in Dutch. It was completed in the summer of 2012 to offer cyclists and also pedestrians an exciting crossover that maximizes safety separated from the car traffic below. Measuring 236 feet in diameter, the ring is suspended from 24 steel cables that originate 230 feet high, close to the top of the central needle pylon.
Related: IPV Delft’s Floating LED-Lit Hovenring Bridge Keeps Cyclists Out Of Traffic in Eindhoven
Working in combination with M-shaped supports under each of the four exits, the cables ensure stability and prevent the fairly flat ring to sway in strong winds. To add stability, each cable was equipped with anti-vibration dampers that prevent torsion and reduce reverberation. While during the day the ring is used by commuters and kids going to school, at night, when the lights are on, the magnificent structure shines.
LED lighting was installed all around the railing, brightening up the orange deck to increase the visibility of nightriders. But it’s the lighting beneath the deck that makes this striking landmark ‘float’ at the edge of the Dutch ‘City of Lights’.
Photos © Ana Lisa Alperovich for Inhabitat
from Inhabitat - Green Design, Innovation, Architecture, Green Building http://ift.tt/1UgIu4V
Advertisement
Sourced by "Home Hacks". Scouring and supporting the art of DIY home projects by sharing links and information provided by numerous active reputable DIY veterans and company's. Any projects you start please be of proper age, follow all required safety measures, and use the required protective equipment when handling any chemicals, power tools, or during any construction project. If you need advice regarding your next project we suggest visiting Contractor Talk.
