Analysis, design & installation of vibration isolation for lightweight helipads

This case study discusses the design and manufacturing steps for the installation of a vibration isolation solution for two lightweight helidecks installed on the rooftop of an existing medical center building. The design stage involved the analysis of the relevant information, involving several specialties, such as Acoustics (for sources of vibration and acoustic performance requirements), Heliport Design (for the type of aircraft, MTOW, number of supports, static and dynamic loads) and Structural (for the types of connections to the existing building structure). A collaborative effort between CDM Stravitec and the helideck supplier led the design through a progressive and iterative process where a final design that responded to the strong acoustical requirements and the complex nature of a fully functional and integrated lightweight helideck. Along with the design, compromises were made to ensure that requirements were met for both acoustic and structural performance. The solution delivered was a prefabricated box that could easily be installed on-site, and comprised the necessary components, such as springs and uplift restraints, to deal with the challenging aspects of the isolation of lightweight helidecks. The paper also discusses the challenges and best practices encountered during the production and installation of the system.