Expo Axis, Membrane roofing structure in Shanghai, China
Expo Axis is a covered pedestrian passage in Shanghai that connects different areas of the former World Expo site. It spans several levels, both above and below ground, and is topped by a roof made of steel and glass.
Expo Axis was built for the 2010 World Exposition in Shanghai and served as the main spine connecting the entire fairground. After the exposition closed, the site was converted into a public area used for shopping and events.
The six funnel-shaped openings made of steel and glass are called "Sun Valleys" and channel daylight down into the underground levels. This name reflects a Chinese idea that light and nature should be felt even in enclosed spaces.
The passage is well signposted and easy to walk through, with escalators and elevators connecting the different levels. It works especially well as a starting point on a rainy day, since the covered sections provide shelter along the way.
The roof of Expo Axis was designed with a collaboration between Chinese and German engineers, which is rare for a public infrastructure project of this kind. The German team focused specifically on the Sun Valley funnels, while the Chinese team handled the overall structure.
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