Production Process and On-site Installation of the Meteorological Monitoring Station's Spherical Hyperbolic Aluminum Panels

The meteorological monitoring station's exterior facade features a spherical, hyperbolic aluminum curtain wall design. Its streamlined form is complex and requires extremely high machining precision.

1. Modeling and Detailed Design

During the design phase, 3D modeling was performed using Rhino software, combined with Grasshopper's parametric tools to precisely segment the sphere's surface. By integrating the BIM platform with construction drawings, the sphere's outer skin was divided into several hyperbolic aluminum panels. Each panel was uniquely numbered to ensure consistent processing and installation.

2. Hyperbolic Aluminum Panel Production Process

* Cutting and Pre-bending: Based on the model data, the aluminum sheet blanks were CNC-cut, leaving an allowance for installation.

* Molding: Using CNC drawing, hydraulic molds, and prestressing processes, each panel was cold-pressed or hot-bent. * **Welding and Polishing**: Weld reinforcement ribs and mounting lugs onto the back of the aluminum panels, and polish the welds to ensure a smooth transition between curved surfaces.

* **Surface Treatment**: After forming, the panels are polished and sprayed with fluorocarbon paint to ensure surface flatness and weather resistance.

* **Quality Control**: Each panel is re-measured using a 3D scanner and compared to the Rhino modeling data, with an error control of ±2mm.

3. **On-Site Installation Process**

* **Measurement and Layout**: Use a total station to lay out the steel structure frame, ensuring that the installation points align with the 3D model.

* **Frame Welding**: Weld the secondary keel onto the main steel ring beam and columns, with a spherical tolerance of no more than ±5mm.

* **Panel Lifting and Fixing**: Each aluminum panel is hoisted into place according to its numbered sequence and connected to the keel using special fixtures and mounting lugs. Curvature and gaps are corrected for each panel.

* **Seaming and Gluing**: Weather-resistant glue is used to seal the spherical joints to ensure a continuous appearance and airtightness.

4. **Construction in Harsh Weather**

The project construction took place during winter, with heavy snowfall and temperatures dropping as low as -15°C. The construction conditions were extremely challenging:

* Construction workers were required to wear cold-weather and anti-slip gear, and the construction platform was regularly cleared of snow.

* Temporary enclosures and heating systems were set up for welding operations to ensure weld quality.

* The caulking process was completed in a heated tent to prevent poor curing of the silicone adhesive due to low temperatures.

* To ensure the construction schedule, the site implemented a "day and night shift" system, with both machinery and manual labor coordinating to complete the installation.

Ultimately, despite the complex curves and extreme weather conditions, the spherical hyperbolic aluminum panels were successfully installed, resulting in a smooth and sleek overall appearance that met the high functional and aesthetic standards of the meteorological monitoring station.