At ECCON, we have more than 25 years’ experience with retractable roof systems, and many more with drive systems. As experts in this field, we are able to offer a full, comprehensive service and guarantee system reliability for many years to come.
Drive Systems
Drive systems: a core competency
One of the most challenging aspects of constructing a retractable roof is identifying and developing an efficient, reliable drive system.
The drive system of a roof includes all moving parts of a retractable roof system. These moving parts are crucial, as they are subject to extremely variable loads. The system needs to function smoothly, without any glitches. Lots of sliding carriages, pins and cables are moving at the same time, often asynchronously – maintaining complete control is essential.
Cable drives
In this system, steel cables are moved along each axis using special winches. The roof membrane or panels / segments are attached to the cables (e.g. with sliding carriages). Roof systems with cable drives can be moved along cables or rails. Depending on the structure of the roof, the cable generally runs in a circular system that the roof can be moved in both directions – i.e. to open and to close it.
BC Place stadium
7,800 m² retractable roofage is moved with a rope driving system. Visit the project
Wheel drives
Roofs can also be moved by using wheel drive systems. These systems are generally based on rails. The wheels are motorised and slide the roof along the rails, using the friction between the wheels and rails. The roof is fixed on the drive system and can be thereby opened and closed.
Dubai Mall
2,800 m² roofage – composed of stiff segments is moved on wheels. Visit the project
Chain drives or rack gears
Similar to the wheel drive systems, this approach uses motorised pinion wheels which move along a chain or toothed racks to open or close the roof as needed. This system is generally used with rail-supported roof panels.
Sanyo Mall
Membrane roofs over curved passages are moved by a chain drive. Visit the project