IDAC were required to analyse the structural integrity of the seating system in accordance with the deflections and vibrations criteria as specified by the National Building Code of Canada 1985. The 3D geometry of the seating system, comprising of the units mentioned above, was supplied to IDAC in Autodesk Inventor format. The geometry was simplified to remove any small features that were deemed unnecessary for the analysis. Sliding contacts (without friction) were used between the nylon skids and the corresponding supports. The units were simply supported on a concrete floor, without any longitudinal constraints. However, in order to avoid rigid movements in the longitudinal direction during analysis, fully fixed constraints were used at some supporting pads. A check of the horizontal reactions at the constraints showed that they were lower than the calculated forces due to friction. This verified that the frictional forces would be able to oppose the external forces acting in the longitudinal direction.

Stress analyses of the assemblies and the rails were carried out as well as a modal analysis of the assemblies, and an assessment of the slender parts' deflections. The loads applied to the assemblies simulated the movement of people in both horizontal directions along the platforms.

The linear stress analysis results highlighted areas where the stresses were too close to the material limit. The graphic to the left shows an area of a high stress concentration. These areas had to be re-designed and then re-analysed. Analysis of the re-designed components showed that the stresses experienced were acceptable.

A deflection assessment of slender parts was also carried out in accordance with the National Building Code of Canada 1985 to check for buckling collapse. All deflections were found to be within the limits specified within the code. The graphic below left shows a contour plot of the deformation experienced by the seating assembly under load.