Fazlur Khan’s design innovations

Fazlur Khan, a pioneering structural engineer and architect, introduced several design innovations that significantly influenced the field of skyscraper construction. Some of his notable contributions include:

1. **Tubular Design:** Khan developed the concept of the "tube structure," which involves using a framework of closely spaced columns to form a rigid tube. This design significantly enhances a building's ability to resist lateral forces, such as wind and seismic loads.

2. **Bundled Tube System:** Khan extended the tubular concept with the "bundled tube" system, where several tubes are grouped together. This design allows for taller and more efficient skyscrapers by distributing the load among multiple tubes, improving structural stability.

3. **Trussed Tube System:** Khan introduced the trussed tube system, which involves incorporating diagonally braced trusses within the tube structure. This innovation further enhances a building's resistance to lateral forces and provides flexibility in architectural design.

Fazlur Khan's innovative structural concepts have had a lasting impact on the design and construction of tall buildings, influencing the evolution of modern skyscrapers.