Bridge 360, in addition to being an elegant bridge, was also the proving ground for the first implementation of FENDER. The bridge itself (also known as Pennybacker Bridge), is a winning architectural proposal that was completed in 2004 as the result of an invited competition for an operable bridge at the entrance to the inner harbour of the Swedish port city, Malmö.
The brief called for three traffic lanes as well as cycle and pedestrian ways, and stipulated that careful consideration should be given to the proximity of one of the popular landmarks of Malmö – the historic lighthouse marking the final approach to the inner harbour.
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MARITIME DESIGN
The maritime context is emphasised by the materials and elements of the bridge – the white painted-steel construction, the cantilevered wooden deck for pedestrians and cyclists, parapets like ships’ railings and finally the steel stays held by the double mast pylons.
Through a series of 3D visualisations, it was decided that the use of traditional light masts would impede the open view and conflict with the maritime character of the site and the bridge masts.
On this basis, it was decided to proceed with a unique side-lighting concept designed as an integrated part of the standard roadway safety barrier. This concept was developed in parallel with the bridge design development in cooperation with the lighting firm.
FENDER LINEAR LUMINAIRE
FENDER is a purpose-designed linear luminaire for use on bridges and other public ways, which require single or double-sided light distribution.
The upper part of the luminaire is a custom aluminium section with an integrated light fitting. Shaped like a broad handrail, this element appears as a natural component of the barrier.
Screening of the light source was a key factor, as the top of the barrier is located at approximately the height of a driver’s eye.
Digital visualisation of the fitting aided greatly in the development of the proposal. The drawings were used in evaluating the quality of the lighting as well as the detailing of the elements with a view to production. A full-scale mock-up was built and tested in order to generate the required lighting data.
ANODISED ALUMINIUM REFLECTOR
FENDER is an extruded anodised aluminium reflector with a laser-cut louver array. An enamel powder-coat finish on the interior surface and a clear or opaque toughened glass diffuser are combined to suit the required optical reflectance.
Within the larger context of the harbour, the bridge is also marked with custom lanterns terminating the support masts. Glass-blasted and UV-stabilised cast acrylic cylinders affixed to the top of the steel masts are lighted from directly underneath by an LED fitting mounted inside the mast.
The cylinders, together with the linear bands of the FENDER indirect light along the roadway, offer a complimentary counterpoint to the historical lighthouse beacon on the opposite bank.
