Space Frame
Space Frame
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. Like the truss, a space frame is
strong because of the inherent rigidity of the triangle; flexing loads (bending moments) are
transmitted as tension and compression loads along the length of each strut.
structure would depend entirely on the blue node's bending rigidity, i.e. to its resistance (or lack
thereof) to bending; however, with the red bar in place, then assuming negligible bending rigidity
of the blue node as compared with the red bar's contributing rigidity, this 3-dimensional load-
bearing truss structure could be solved using a rigidity matrix (neglecting angular factors).
Space frames are strong, adaptable, and efficient buildings that can support a variety of weights.
under various loads, probable modes of failure, and rules for optimal arrangement. To maximize
space frames' performance and longevity, proper design, material selection, and joint integrity are
essential.
Design methods
Space frames are typically designed using a rigidity matrix. The special characteristic of
the stiffness matrix in an architectural space frame is the independence of the angular factors. If
the joints are sufficiently rigid, the angular deflections can be neglected, simplifying the
calculations.
pyramids and tetrahedra built from Aluminum or tubular steel struts. In many ways this looks like
the horizontal jib of a tower crane repeated many times to make it wider. A stronger form is
composed of interlocking tetrahedra in which all the struts have unit length. More technically this
is referred to as an isotropic vector matrix or in a single unit width an octet truss. More complex
variations change the lengths of the struts to curve the overall structure or may incorporate other
geometrical shapes.
Types
Within the meaning of space frame, we can find three systems clearly different between them:[8]
Curvature classification
• Space plane covers: These spatial structures are composed of planar substructures. Their
behavior is similar to that of a plate in which the deflections in the plane are channeled
through the horizontal bars and the shear forces are supported by the diagonals.[9]
• Barrel vaults: This type of vault has a cross section of a simple arch. Usually, this type of
space frame does not need to use tetrahedral modules or pyramids as a part of its backing.
The section type barrel vault is organized according to IS: 800-2007, and the evaluation is
carried out mostly using STAAD. This work elicits evaluations of models for range,
• Spherical domes and other compound curves usually require the use of tetrahedral modules
• Single layer grid: All elements are located on the surface to be approximated.
• Double layer grid: Elements are organized in two layers parallel to each other at a certain
distance apart. Each of the layers form a lattice of triangles, squares or hexagons in which
the projection of the nodes in a layer may overlap or be displaced relative to each other.
Diagonal bars connect the nodes of both layers in different directions in space. In this type
of meshes, the elements are associated into three groups: upper cordon, cordon and cordon
lower diagonal.
• Triple layer grid: Elements are placed in three parallel layers, linked by the diagonals. They
• Pleated metallic structures: Emerged to try to solve the problems that formwork and
pouring concrete had their counterparts. Typically run with welded joint, but may raise
funicular show their ability to channel forces theoretically better than any other alternative,
have an infinite range of possibilities for composition and adaptability to any type of plant
cover or ensure vain. However, imprecisions in shape having the loaded strand (ideally
adapts dynamically to the state of charge) and the risk of bending the arc to unexpected
stresses are problems that require pre-compression and pre-stressing elements. Although
in most cases tend to be the cheapest and the technical solution that best fits the acoustics
Applications
Buildings
• Industrial structures:
o Factories
o Warehouses,
o Sports halls
o Stadiums
o Museums and fair houses
o Shopping malls
o Airports
Space frames are a common feature in modern building construction; they are often found in large
• Biosphere 2 by John P. Allen, Phil Hawes, Peter Jon Pearce in Oracle, Arizona
Space frames are sometimes used in the chassis designs of automobiles and motorcycles. In both
a space frame and a tube-frame chassis, the suspension, engine, and body panels are attached to a
skeletal frame of tubes, and the body panels have little or no structural function. By contrast, in