Abstract: A reticular spatial structure comprising a plurality of perimetral rod-like elements which are associable, at their ends, with perimetral nodes; a plurality of variable-length rod-like elements hinged to connecting nodes having a spherical contact surface adapted to allow the rotation of at least part of the variable-length rod-like elements both about the axis of said elements and with respect to the geometrical center of the various nodes, for the extension of the variable-length elements during the raising of the framework which is preassembled on a base plane. A connecting node comprises a lower plate and an upper plate securing a covering membrane, which can be fixed to a rocker suspension pivot connected to a hollow body having both the outer surface and the inner surface in the shape of equatorial segments of concentric spheres. The hollow body is provided with openings for the insertion of the node-rode fixing bolts.

Abstract: Building construction supported by the ground, having a floor, sidewalls mounted upon the floor and a roof supported by the sidewalls and the floor. A plurality of spaced apart inflatable flexible elements are provided which are disposed between the floor and the ground. Adjustable linkages anchor the floor to the ground and serve to urge the floor toward the inflatable flexible elements to provide a stable and relatively level support for the floor as well as the sidewalls and roof.

Abstract: A method for forming a domed space frame, comprising assembling and pivotally interconnecting plural longitudinally extensible elongate elements into a planar grid frame array; pivotally anchoring ends of the elongate elements at the grid frame periphery; securing a gas-tight flexible extensible membrane to the grid frame; anchoring the membrane around the periphery of the grid frame in a gas-tight manner; and introducing pressurized gas under the membrane to inflate it and thereby raise the grid frame into a domed configuration, with a consequential extension of the elongate elements. When each elongate element has extended to a predetermined ultimate length, an arresting means associated therewith becomes operative and prevents any further change in the length of that elongate element. When all the elongate elements are so arrested, the gas pressure is released from beneath the membrane, and a self-supporting domed space frame is then available for use.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for making a self-supporting dome-like skeletal structure including the steps of preparing a substantially flat surface, assembling an array of multi-sided first members which is criss-crossed by paths comprising adjacent flanges of adjacent first members, placing a strip of pliable material along each path and interweaving the strips at intersections thereof, securing the ends of the strips, mounting over each first member a second member of configuration similar to said first member, said second members peripherally sealingly resting on the strips on the flanges of the first members, placing concrete in troughs having as sides the sides of adjacent second members and as bottoms the strips on the flanges of the first members and introducing pressurized gas below said array of first members to cause it to assume a dome-like configuration, allowing the concrete in the troughs to set and exhausting the gas from below the first members so as to strip at least said first members from the