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
- Part I - Research
- Tensegrity structures
- Definition
- Use of tensegrity systems
- Open vs. closed tensegrity systems
- Tensegrity tower
- Simplex module
- Importance of Eurocode
- Basis of structural design (EN 1990)
- Actions on structures (EN 1991)
- Design of concrete structures (EN 1992)
- Design of steel structures (EN 1993)
- Design of composite steel and concrete structures (EN 1994)
- Design of timber structures (EN 1995)
- Design of masonry structures (EN 1996)
- Geotechnical design (EN 1997)
- Design of structures for earthquake resistance (EN 1998)
- Design of aluminium structures (EN 1999)
- Part II - Construction and Dimensioning C2
- Calculation
- Basis of calculation
- Static methods
- Kinematic methods
- Load calculation
- Tensegrity modell
- Part III - Programming and Simulation S7
- Visual Study and Conclusion
- Calculation with python
- Visual study
- Grasshopper
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This project aims to design and analyze a tensegrity tower, exploring its structural properties and behavior through computational modeling and simulation. The research investigates the application of tensegrity principles in architectural design, focusing on the unique characteristics of these structures.
- Definition and characteristics of tensegrity structures.
- Comparison of open and closed tensegrity systems.
- Application of Eurocodes in tensegrity structure design.
- Computational modeling and simulation techniques for tensegrity structures.
- Prototyping and construction considerations for a tensegrity tower.
Chapter Summaries
Part I - Tensegrity Structures: This section lays the groundwork for understanding tensegrity structures. It begins by defining tensegrity, exploring its origins and key characteristics as described by Richard Buckminster Fuller and Valentin Gomez-Jauregui. The section then examines the practical applications of tensegrity, noting its current prominence in visual arts over civil engineering. A crucial comparison of open and closed tensegrity systems is presented, contrasting their stability, advantages, and the implications for structural design. The distinctions made regarding pressure elements and potential for shorter struts in open systems provide key insights for design choices. The chapter concludes by introducing the specific focus on a tensegrity tower and relevant Eurocodes crucial for the later design phases.
Part II - Construction and Dimensioning C2: This part delves into the detailed calculations and dimensional aspects of the tensegrity tower design. It starts by outlining the fundamental principles and terminology used in the calculations, which serves as a basis for understanding the subsequent methods. Both static and kinematic methods are explored for analyzing the structural behavior, with explanations of both analytical solutions. The load calculation section provides an essential bridge between theoretical analysis and practical construction. The chapter culminates in the description of the tensegrity model, moving from prototyping to the final model and providing visual documentation of the final product. The different approaches used in the calculations showcase different analytical methods that aid in design decisions.
Part III - Programming and Simulation S7: This section focuses on the computational aspects of the tensegrity tower project. It details the use of Python for calculations, providing a crucial link between theoretical concepts and practical application. The visual study and use of Grasshopper software demonstrate the practical application of the computational modeling, offering a comprehensive understanding of the structure's behavior. The visual representations created allow for a clear and accessible understanding of complex structural analysis.
Keywords
Tensegrity, structural design, open and closed systems, Eurocodes, computational modeling, Python, Grasshopper, architectural design, structural analysis, static and kinematic methods, load calculation, prototyping, simulation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Comprehensive Language Preview of Tensegrity Tower Design
What is the overall focus of this document?
This document provides a comprehensive overview of a project focusing on the design and analysis of a tensegrity tower. It covers research, construction, dimensioning, programming, simulation, and visual study of the structure.
What are the main parts of the project described in this document?
The project is divided into three main parts: Part I – Research on tensegrity structures, including definitions, applications, and relevant Eurocodes; Part II – Construction and Dimensioning, detailing calculations, static and kinematic methods, and load calculations; and Part III – Programming and Simulation, focusing on Python scripting, visual study using Grasshopper, and final conclusions.
What are tensegrity structures?
Tensegrity structures are systems characterized by a balance between tension and compression elements. The document explores their definition, use in various applications (with a focus on architectural design), and the distinctions between open and closed tensegrity systems.
What is the significance of Eurocodes in this project?
Eurocodes (specifically EN 1990-EN 1999) provide the structural design standards used for the tensegrity tower design. The document highlights their importance in ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the design.
What calculation methods are used in the design process?
Both static and kinematic methods are employed to analyze the structural behavior of the tensegrity tower. The document explains the application of these methods and provides insights into their respective strengths and weaknesses.
What software and programming languages are used in this project?
Python is used for computational modeling and simulations, while Grasshopper is utilized for the visual study and representation of the structure's behavior. The document details the application of these tools in the design process.
What are the key objectives of this project?
The main objectives include designing and analyzing a tensegrity tower, exploring its structural properties, applying computational modeling and simulation techniques, and investigating the application of tensegrity principles in architectural design.
What are the key themes explored in this project?
Key themes include the definition and characteristics of tensegrity structures, the comparison of open and closed tensegrity systems, the application of Eurocodes, computational modeling and simulation, and prototyping and construction considerations.
What is included in the chapter summaries?
The chapter summaries provide detailed overviews of each part of the project. Part I covers the foundational understanding of tensegrity structures. Part II delves into the detailed calculations and dimensioning aspects. Part III focuses on the computational and visual aspects of the project, including Python scripting, Grasshopper, and final conclusions.
What keywords describe this project?
Key words include Tensegrity, structural design, open and closed systems, Eurocodes, computational modeling, Python, Grasshopper, architectural design, structural analysis, static and kinematic methods, load calculation, prototyping, and simulation.
- Quote paper
- Angelina Aziz (Author), 2017, Design and Construction of a Tensegrity Tower. A Visual and Statistical Case Study of a Tensegrity System, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/374508
