Seminar - Trevor Smith - Triodetic Framing System

Wednesday, June 4, 2003, 1.10 - 1.50 pm
Civil Engineering Lecture Room 3

Abstract

The Department welcomes one of its Alumni, Trevor Smith (1978) to give a presentation on his most recent projects, related to the Canadian company, Triodetic.

Abstract: Triodetic is a 40 year old Canadian company, pioneer in geodesic dome & space frame technology with structures in service all over the world. Over 50% of their business is international. Tirodetic web site.

Projects: The technology has application primarily in roofs for Architectural & Industrial buildings, residential & commercial building foundations, & decorative displays. In Australia the Sydney Botanical Gardens glazed Pyramid & the tower over the Melbourne Entertainment centre incorporate the Triodetic framing system.

The Product: Galvanized steel or aluminium tubes are connected by an innovative hub that has great bending strength & allows unlimited geometry & long spans using less mass of material than alternatives. The product is delivered as a kit that is assembled on site.

The Presenter: Trevor Smith (BE Civil, Syd Uni 1978), then M.Eng.Sc (Geotechnical), then MBA (from UTS 1985). Employed in Engineering design, product development, business development positions relating to steel & aluminium, safety, drainage, bridge, tunnel, building & lighting structures with ARMCO (subsidiary of US Steel-maker), Fletcher Challenge (Aust & New Zealand), Lysaght/BHP (Australasia & China). Most recently in Oil & Water industries - General Manager with Saunders International, Vice President Conservatek USA, and currently CEO with Triodetic.

Benefits of Engineering Degree: Gained analytical, learning, problem solving & multi-tasking skills. Outcome is ability to effectively learn different technologies, including materials, testing, manufacturing, construction & durability. Discipline of BE assisted fast understanding of business, commercial & management issues & allows effective promotion & application of the technologies of each employer throughout career.