Until now, tensegrity structures receive less importance in civil engineering, but they are more po- pular with the visual arts. Tensegrities are of interest in structural design studies because of their lightweight property, aesthetic and modern look. Usually, the structures are built in such a way that struts are connected, which might not be the original definition for tensegrity.
Open tensegrity systems must, in order to be stable, provide forces to the foundation or to secondary constructions that are beyond the scope of the forces resulting from their own weight and the external loads. Open systems have the advantage that the pressure elements don’t have to be used as diagonals, as in closed systems. As a result, shorter pressure sections are possible with open systems, which can be executed with a smaller cross section.
A closed tensegrity system is a self-sufficient array of struts and tendons, arranged in such a way that the struts and tendons enforce an ongoing structural integrity in the overall assemblage. These are termed as “real” tensegrity systems. Closed systems are, regardless of their storage, inherently stable.
Table of Contents
1.1 Definition
1.2 Use of tensegrity systems
1.3 Open vs. closed tensegrity systems
1.4 Tensegrity tower
1.5 Simplex module
1.6 Importance of Eurocode
1.6.1 Basis of structural design (EN 1990)
1.6.2 Actions on structures (EN 1991)
1.6.3 Design of concrete structures (EN 1992)
1.6.4 Design of steel structures (EN 1993)
1.6.5 Design of composite steel and concrete structures (EN 1994)
1.6.6 Design of timber structures (EN 1995)
1.6.7 Design of masonry structures (EN 1996)
1.6.8 Geotechnical design (EN 1997)
1.6.9 Design of structures for earthquake resistance (EN 1998)
1.6.10 Design of aluminium structures (EN 1999)
2.1 Basis of calculation
2.1.1 Terms
2.2 Static methods
2.2.1 Analytical solution
2.3 Kinematic methods
2.3.1 Analytical solution
2.3.2 Definition of the overlap ho
2.3.4 Determination of the additional twisting angle
2.4 Load calculation
2.5 Tensegrity modell
2.5.1 Prototyping
2.5.2 Final modell
2.5.3 Modell photos
3.1 Calculation with python
3.2 Visual study
3.3 Grasshopper
3.4 Conclusion
Research Objectives and Themes
This work explores the structural principles of tensegrity systems, focusing on the design, calculation, and simulation of a two-story tensegrity tower. The research aims to apply engineering standards to create a stable, lightweight structure while utilizing computational tools for form-finding and aesthetic optimization.
- Fundamentals of tensegrity structures and classification
- Structural design and load analysis based on Eurocode standards
- Analytical and kinematic methods for statical calculation
- Prototyping and material selection for tensegrity models
- Parametric design and simulation using Python and Grasshopper
Excerpt from the Book
1.1 Definition
The term tensegrity is a portmanteau of “tensional integrity” and it was coined by the architect and inventor Richard Buckminster Fuller. Searching on short, sufficient definitions I came across a definition by Valentin Gomez-Jauregui:
»Tensegrity is a structural principle based on the use of isolated components in compression inside a net of continuous tension, in such a way that the compressed members (usually rods or struts) do not touch each other and the prestressed tensioned members (usually cables or tendons) delineate the system spatially.«
A lot of originally definitions of tensegrity emphasize that the pressure rods do not touch each other.
Summary of Chapters
1.1 Definition: Introduces the concept and etymology of tensegrity structures as defined by Buckminster Fuller.
1.2 Use of tensegrity systems: Examines the current application of tensegrity in civil engineering compared to the visual arts.
1.3 Open vs. closed tensegrity systems: Distinguishes between open systems requiring external support and self-sufficient closed systems.
1.4 Tensegrity tower: Analyzes the artistic and constructional work of Kenneth Snelson, specifically the Needle-Tower.
1.5 Simplex module: Describes the basic building block of the project consisting of three struts and nine tendons.
1.6 Importance of Eurocode: Discusses the necessity of applying European structural standards to ensure safety and professional design.
2.1 Basis of calculation: Defines the technical terms and geometrical parameters required for the structural analysis of the simplex module.
2.2 Static methods: Explores the analytical approach to static determinateness using framework theory.
2.3 Kinematic methods: Investigates form-finding techniques and the mathematical determination of rod/rope lengths and twisting angles.
2.4 Load calculation: Provides a practical calculation example for dead loads and live loads on a tensegrity tower.
2.5 Tensegrity modell: Details the prototyping phase, including material properties and the construction of the final model.
3.1 Calculation with python: Demonstrates the use of Python scripts to automate complex calculations of rod lengths and tower height.
3.2 Visual study: Explores the aesthetic relationship between width and height using the Golden Section.
3.3 Grasshopper: Explains the parametric modelling process using graphical algorithms for simulation and form-finding.
3.4 Conclusion: Summarizes the advantages of tensegrity structures and proposes future campus applications.
Keywords
Tensegrity, Simplex Module, Structural Design, Eurocode, Load Calculation, Statics, Kinematic Methods, Parametric Design, Grasshopper, Python, Form-finding, Tensional Integrity, Lightweight Structures, Golden Ratio, Modeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research paper?
The paper focuses on the engineering and design process of building a tensegrity tower, covering both theoretical statics and practical computational simulation.
What are the central themes covered in the work?
The central themes are structural stability, the application of Eurocode standards, the use of simplex modules, and the integration of parametric design tools.
What is the main objective of the study?
The objective is to calculate and model a two-story tensegrity tower, ensuring it is structurally sound through defined prestress and optimal geometry.
Which scientific methods are employed for analysis?
The author uses analytical static calculations (Maxwell's law), kinematic form-finding methods, and software-based parametric simulations.
What is addressed in the main body of the paper?
The main body treats the definition of tensegrity, structural Eurocode requirements, mathematical derivations for rod/rope forces, material prototyping, and computational workflows.
Which keywords best characterize the work?
Key terms include Tensegrity, Simplex Module, Structural Design, Parametric Modeling, and Statics.
Why are Eurocodes used in this project?
Eurocodes are used to provide a standardized framework for calculating the structure's bearing capacity and ensuring compliance with European civil engineering safety standards.
How does the author determine the "perfect" aesthetic for the tower?
The author uses a visual study in Grasshopper to evaluate the proportions of the tower, ultimately selecting the Golden Section (ratio 1:1.6) for the best aesthetic sensitivity.
What role does Python play in the research?
Python is used to automate the calculation of rod lengths and module heights based on input parameters, reducing manual errors during the prototyping phase.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Angelina Aziz (Autor:in), 2017, Design and Construction of a Tensegrity Tower. A Visual and Statistical Case Study of a Tensegrity System, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/374508
