Abstract: Apparatus for erecting a domed structure includes a support base and a guide member extending vertically from the support base. A lifting tower movably engages the guide member. The lifting tower is formed of sequentially added sections telescopingly mounted on the guide member. A plurality of push-up devices are mounted adjacent to the base. A first one of the push-up devices engages a first added section of the lifting tower. A second one of the push-up devices engages a second added section of the lifting tower. The first added section of the lifting tower is offset from the second added section of the lifting tower so that the lifting tower is vertically extended in a stepped sequence relative to the guide member. A dome formed of structural components extends radially outwardly from the lifting tower.

Abstract: A method of making a connector hub to mate with tubular frame members, for use in constructing a free span building. The method includes constructing multiple slots, each slot having an open end, a closed end, and a longitudinal axis; and for each slot; disposing a tooth on either side of the longitudinal axis; and making the area of the connector material in shear to the area of the tubular frame member in tension, as an approximate ratio of the unit strength of the material of the tubular frame member in tension to the unit strength of the material of the connector in shear.

Abstract: Cladding for a domed structure bridges gaps between adjacent roofing panels. The cladding preferably utilizes adjustable cladding panels and bridges to bridge the gap between adjacent roofing panels. The cladding is particularly suited for doubly curved surfaces.

Abstract: A free span building has connector hubs having slots for mating with tubular frame members. Each slot has a longitudinal axis, and a tooth symmetrically disposed on either side of the longitudinal axis. The area of the slot in shear is larger than the area of the tubular frame member in tension by at least an approximate ratio of the strength of the material of the tubular frame member in tension to the strength of the material of the slot in shear. The angle between a bearing face of the tooth and the longitudinal axis is within the range of seventy to ninety degrees. The teeth are disposed on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis. A distance measured on the tubular member perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and between the teeth, is at least the ratio of the yield strength to the ultimate strength of the material of the tubular member.

Abstract: A structure includes a framework including frame members interconnected by hub members. The framework includes an inner surface and an outer surface. Cladding material is attached to the inner surface of the framework to form an enclosure or shell within the framework and maintain the framework exterior of the cladding material. This arrangement limits the collection of dust on the structural space frame elements due to the absence of the framework from the interior of the structure.

Abstract: A free span building has connector hubs having slots for mating with tubular frame members. Each slot has a longitudinal axis, and a tooth symmetrically disposed on either side of the longitudinal axis. The area of the slot in shear is larger than the area of the tubular frame member in tension by at least an approximate ratio of the strength of the material of the tubular frame member in tension to the strength of the material of the slot in shear. The angle between a bearing face of the tooth and the longitudinal axis is within the range of seventy to ninety degrees. The teeth are disposed on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis. A distance measured on the tubular member perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and between the slot's teeth, is at least the ratio of the yield strength to the ultimate strength of the material of the tubular member.

Abstract: A structural member includes a tube member having first and second opposite ends. An elongated portion between the opposite ends terminates at a flattened, tapered portion adjacent each end, and a crimped portion at each end. At least one reinforcing member is provided adjacent each end. Each reinforcing member is attached to the tube adjacent the flattened, tapered portion, and extends transversely through the tube member.

Abstract: A split separable joint includes a cylindrical hub having a first portion and a second portion. The hub portions interconnect at a keyed interface. The hub has axially extending, radially directed, keyed slots formed in a peripheral hub surface for receiving structural members. The first and second hub portions are retained together as a unit by a fastener which extends diametrically through aligned bores in each hub portion. The structural members are retained in place by an axially extending fastener which retains end plates on opposed ends of the hub.

Abstract: A cladding support system includes rounded tubular members having an arcuate face. The tubular members are connected to extend outwardly from hubs. A cladding support member is mounted on the arcuate face of the tubular members and extends transversely across the tubular members. The support member is substantially "U" shaped including a raised closed end and a pair of sides terminating at an open end. A flange extends outwardly from each side. Each flange is attached to the arcuate face of the tubular member. Cladding is attached to the raised closed end of the support member.

Abstract: A cladding support system for a framework including rounded tubular members having an arcuate face and flattened opposite ends inserted into cylindrical hubs. The support element includes an elongated span and opposite end portions each including a terminal end. The span has an arcuate surface in seated engagement with the arcuate face of the tubular member. The end portions of the support element each have a tapered surface coextensive with and angularly disposed relative to the arcuate surface. The tapered surface includes a groove at each terminal end of the support element for receiving the flattened ends of the tubular members. The terminal ends are angular and overhang the cylindrical hubs.