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This tower was designed by APEC as part of a bid for a project to celebrate the millennium in Birmingham. Although never built, the ideas remain valid
The concept was to rise from its base with 1000 steps formed in a double helix. Above this there would be a musuem of mankind on six levels and finally a globe which would give a real-time image of our world. Within the globe would be a planetarium.
50 Metre diameter globe faced with about 100,000, solar-powered light points - computer orchestrated to display a real-time, satellite-generated display of the state of the world. Intended to encourage people to think in global terms and realise the importance of conserving our precious planet. The sphere will also serve as a timepiece and weather indicator. Being effectively a large television screen, it can also be used to display other appropriate images. These might occur on the hour as a novel clock. The Interior of the sphere will be used as a total-sky planetarium, seating 1200 people.
Below
the globe is the Museum of mankind. Intended as a spiritually uplifting
and educational experience. Virtual reality displays to include and cross-reference
the achievements of the human race with special reference to exploration,
discovery, navigation and astronomy. By the electronic, world-wide network
the Museum can act as a provider and receiver of limitless information.
Double helix
structure of stairs and landings making reference to DNA as the basic building
blocks of all living things. One spiral will be for ascending and the other
for descending. The structure is designed to take advantage of aeolian
sounds generated by the winds. Pipes and tensioned cables will allow fine
tuning to achieve pure harmonics. Visitors will be able to experience ever-changing
beautiful sounds and panoramic views
Each spiral consists of 1000 steps to symbolise the millennium. Each step will be numbered and annotated with information of significant events that occurred in its year. The central core will contain five linear-motor lifts on its outer face providing a unique form of vertical movement within the tower. The lifts will be accessible at frequent points so that climbers can restrict their efforts as thought fit. The inner core will provide several fully protected stairways for use in emergencies.
