GoB (grid of beams)

Introduction

The Grid of Beams (GoB) is a building system that was developed in the 1960s by the architect Kenzo Tange, and engineers Koji Kamiya and Takeshi Ohtaka. It is a structural system that consists of a grid of reinforced concrete beams that form a regular pattern throughout the building, providing both vertical and horizontal structural support. This system was developed as a response to the need for a flexible and adaptable building system that could be used to construct large-scale buildings quickly and efficiently. This essay will explain the Grid of Beams in detail, discussing its advantages, disadvantages, and applications.

Structure of GoB

The Grid of Beams (GoB) is a structural system that consists of a regular grid of reinforced concrete beams that support the floors and walls of a building. The beams are typically spaced at regular intervals throughout the building, with the spacing determined by the size and shape of the building. The beams are typically rectangular or square in shape, and are reinforced with steel bars to provide additional strength and stiffness.

The GoB system relies on the strength and stiffness of the beams to provide both vertical and horizontal structural support to the building. The beams are designed to resist the weight of the floors and walls above them, as well as any lateral loads that may be applied to the building, such as wind or seismic loads.

Advantages of GoB

There are several advantages to using the Grid of Beams (GoB) system for building construction. Firstly, the regular grid pattern of the beams allows for a high degree of flexibility in the design of the building. This system can be used to construct buildings of various shapes and sizes, with different floor plans and layouts.

Secondly, the use of reinforced concrete beams provides a high degree of strength and stiffness to the building. This system can be used to construct large-scale buildings that are able to resist the forces of wind and seismic loads. Additionally, the use of reinforced concrete beams can also help to reduce the amount of deformation that occurs in the building during seismic events, which can help to prevent damage to the building and its occupants.

Thirdly, the use of the GoB system can also help to reduce the construction time and cost of a building. The regular grid pattern of the beams allows for a more efficient construction process, with fewer materials and labor required. Additionally, the use of precast beams can help to reduce the amount of time required for on-site construction.

Disadvantages of GoB

Despite its many advantages, there are also some disadvantages to using the Grid of Beams (GoB) system for building construction. Firstly, the regular grid pattern of the beams can limit the design of the building. This system may not be suitable for buildings that require a more complex or irregular shape.

Secondly, the use of reinforced concrete beams can also increase the weight of the building, which may require additional foundation support. This can add to the cost of the building, and may limit its use in certain locations or applications.

Finally, the use of the GoB system may also require additional design and engineering expertise. The system may require specialized knowledge and skills to ensure that the building is designed and constructed to meet the necessary safety and performance requirements.

Applications of GoB

The Grid of Beams (GoB) system has been used in a variety of applications, ranging from large-scale commercial and industrial buildings to residential structures. One notable example of a building constructed using the GoB system is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Japan, which was designed by Kenzo Tange and completed in 1991.

This building consists of two towers that are connected by a central atrium, with a total height of 243 meters. The GoB system was used to provide the structural support for the building, with a regular grid pattern of reinforced concrete beams used throughout the building. This system allowed for a high degree of flexibility in the design of the building, with different floor plans and layouts possible.

Another example of a building that uses the GoB system is the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, Japan, which was completed in 1993. This building consists of two towers that are connected by a central atrium, with a total height of 173 meters. The GoB system was used to provide the structural support for the building, with a regular grid pattern of reinforced concrete beams used throughout the building.

The GoB system has also been used in the construction of residential buildings, particularly in Japan. This system allows for a more efficient construction process, with fewer materials and labor required. Additionally, the use of precast beams can help to reduce the amount of time required for on-site construction.

Conclusion

The Grid of Beams (GoB) system is a flexible and adaptable building system that provides both vertical and horizontal structural support to a building. This system has several advantages, including a high degree of flexibility in the design of the building, a high degree of strength and stiffness, and a reduced construction time and cost.

Despite its advantages, there are also some disadvantages to using the GoB system, including limitations on the design of the building, increased weight and foundation support requirements, and additional design and engineering expertise required.

The GoB system has been used in a variety of applications, including large-scale commercial and industrial buildings as well as residential structures. Its use in construction has allowed for more efficient and cost-effective building processes, and its flexibility in design has allowed for the construction of unique and innovative buildings.