4/11/22

SPACE FRAME STRUCTURE

SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE – KA SHMIR

Ar. Sher Ali

Introduction
• In architecture and
structural engineering, a
space frame or space
structure (3D truss) is a
rigid, lightweight,
truss-like structure
constructed from
interlocking struts in a
geometric pattern.
• Space frames can be
used to span large
areas with few interior
supports.

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• This is under construction building of Zaha Hadid whereas, the member of

different tubes are being used and they made some connection with some
connectors and then form this space frame.

The simplest form of space frame is a horizontal slab of interlocking square

pyramids and tetrahedra built from aluminium or tubular steel struts.

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• The load will be distributed to the next member more efficiently and more
importantly because it is just a tube
• It made with light material like aluminium alloy, so, the dead load of the
structure will be less and that can cover up huge span without such vertical
support in regular interval.
• This whole span is covered with some light material, we can sometimes use some
translucent material which will allow light and the area underneath will be
lighted.

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Components: Space Frame

• Welded Connection - all the connections are

getting weld with the members

• Bolted Connection - the members to the

connector is being adjusted with the bolt.

• Threaded connections - members are being

fitted with hemispherical or spherical
connector where we can make it. The holes are
there with the certain angle on this and we just
fix it with that particular thread.

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Types: Space Frame

• Based on Curvature
– Space Plane Covers – Examples of Space plane that can be
referred is the roof of Petrol Pump which is supported by the
end column but very few in number or else it may be supported
with the cable with one vertical post at center
– Barrel Vaults - Barrel vault space structure allows a structural
design to incorporate arching theory and the use of steel offers
great blending strength so that long clear spans and low rise
barrel vaults are possible for entrance canopies and curved glass
walls. It is considered as the simplest form of a vault;
effectively a series of arches placed side by side i.e. one after
other.
– Spherical Domes - A geodesic dome is a spherical space-
frame structure composed of a complex network of triangles.
The linked triangles create a self-bracing framework that is
structurally strong yet elegantly delicate.

Space Frame – Based on Curvature

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Types: Space Frame

• Based on Arrangement of Elements

– Flat Double Layer Grid –
– Flat Multi-layer Grid -
– Double layer Braced barrel Vaults
– Free – form Spatial Structure
– Brace Dome

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Space Frame – Based on Arrangements of Elements

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Space Frame – Based on Arrangements of Elements

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Space Frame – Based on Arrangements of Elements

Brace Dome

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SPACE FRAMES CAN SPAN LONG

DISTANCES

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• Space frames usually utilize a

multidirectional span, and are often used to
accomplish long spans with few supports.
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• Space frames are an increasingly common architectural technique especially for

large roof spans in modernist commercial and industrial buildings

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Some space frame applications

include:
• Hotel/Hospital/com
mercial building
entrances

• Commercial
building
lobbies/atriums

• Parking canopies

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Advantages of space frame systems over

conventional systems:
ü Random column placement
ü Column-free spaces

ü Minimal perimeter support

ü Controlled load distribution

ü Design freedom

ü Supports all types of

roofing

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U.S. Pavilion, Montreal Expo 1970, Montreal, Canada

Architect: Buckminster Fuller

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Stadium, Japan

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COMPONENTS OF SPACE FRAME

• Consists of axial members : which are tubes and
connectors

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TUBES
1) Circular Hollow Sections

2) Rectangular Hollow Sections

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ADVANTAGES
• Light
• Elegant & Economical
• Carry load by three dimensional action
• High Inherent Stiffness
• Easy to construct
• Save Construction Time & Cost
• Services (such as lighting and air conditioning) can be
integrated with space frames
• Offer the architect unrestricted freedom in locating
supports and planning the subdivision of the covered
space.

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EXAMPLES OF BUILDING

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SAN SIRO STADIUM, MILAN

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STANSTED AIRPORT, LONDON

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