Teller Glass Cantilever Window system

[EngineeringEric]

I have a project at a certain facility. The facility is being expanded and part of the expansion is the addition of a glass window at the front check-in counter (similar to bullet proof tellers at banks / gas-stations). This window will be attached to an existing counter and extend up 4' and not attach to the ceiling. the window is not bulletproof or explosion proof. the counter is actually structural steel framed and then wood stud infill panels.

I was wondering if anybody has experience with anything like this. My first ideas are to assume a nominal 5psf and handle to top of the window with an aluminum mullion (like a window) but that span will be 18' clear. I may have to add intermediate supports extending from the counter and possibly tie them to the roof but we all know what the architect will respond with. I do not think I can model the window as a fix-pin with the counter acting as a fixed location without some detailed connections. Any other ideas or creative solutions worth exploring in a DD capacity?

 

[KootK]

Perhaps you can sell the architect on vertical fins at some reasonable spacing with glass spanning horizontally in between.

The greatest trick that bond stress ever pulled was convincing the world it didn't exist.

 

[KootK]

Actually, scratch my earlier comment. I don't understand the situation. Care to post a sketch?

The greatest trick that bond stress ever pulled was convincing the world it didn't exist.

 

[CELinOttawa]

I have experience with these where they are bullet & explosion proof... I would think that your approach should be similar; IE: It is all about the connections. Most of the glass that you can even start to think about using here will be self-supporting against gravity, but need lots (or maybe not so much for your case) of lateral support and glass to glass joint support.

Do not let the Architect try to achieve the joints with silicon caulking instead of mullions unless you are dependent upon their good will for more work. You can, but it is not cheap, and not at all robust; Frankly, it is a waste and unless installed well can be dangerous.

 

[EngineeringEric]

Glass fins, or returns, at the vertical mullions and joints would work nicely actually. didn't think of that. I will try and post a sketch but as it seems for now a nice girt at the top probably wont suffice. CEL i am dependent on their work, but i would not rely on sealant, i was planning on having some sort of H fiiting for the seams. Maybe i will have to attach some sort of vertical cantilever at the seams which will be attached to the floor and steel desk...

I'll post a sketch in the AM.

 

[RFreund]

The glass is extending up 4'? Can you cantilever the glass from the counter? The glass can be structural...It's all about the connection though as previously stated.

EIT

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