Abstract: A pre-stressed structure and a method for forming a pre-stressed structure are provided. The pre-stressed structure comprises a panel including a first region pre-stressed into a condition of membrane tension, resulting in the panel having increased transverse stiffness. The pre-stressed structure may further comprise a second region pre-stressed into a condition of membrane compression. The panel may be a plate or a shell and may form part of an insulating glass unit, which in turn may form part of a curtainwall unit.

Abstract: A tower structure including a central, vertical mast and a plurality of tensioned elongate elements arranged to support the mast against buckling, the plurality of tensioned elements together defining a generally hyperboloid structure and including a first plurality of elongate elements which define a multiplicity of junctions therebetween, a second plurality of junction-to-mast joining elongate elements which join at least some of the multiplicity of junctions to the central, vertical mast; and a third plurality of junction-to-junction joining elongate elements which are connected at a plurality of mutually spaced fixed locations therealong to the at least some of the multiplicity of junctions.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present disclosure provides complex curved structures and methods of making the same without requiring specially made frames or the like. These structures may include complex multi-axis, spherical, semi-spherical, twisted, or other like curves, for example. In this illustrative embodiment, individually sized boxes are stacked or assembled to form the structure.

Abstract: A granular material storage capacity increasing device and system includes a housing including a first and second side walls each having an upper edge. A roof structure is attached to and extends between the first and second side walls. The roof structure includes roof trusses each having an inner chord. A plurality of curtain assemblies is attached to the roof structure to define an auxiliary storage capacity. At least one of the curtain assemblies is mounted adjacent to and associated with the first side wall and at least one of the curtain assemblies is mounted adjacent to and associated with the second side wall. Each of the curtain assemblies a flexible panel extending between and is attached to two inner chords. A top edge attached to the inner chords and bottom edge attached to one of the first or second side walls.

Abstract: Utilizing the three different hyperbolic paraboloids which each divide a set of correlating tetrahedrons in half, new, unique interconnectable structural members and toys have been created. They include the n-fold hyperbolic paraboloids, the n-fold hyperbolic paraboloid lattice assemblies and many other cellular, lattice and labyrinthal structures. Some have stacking properties and all have interlocking characteristics and are inherently strong and rigid due to the use of hyperbolic paraboloids. The interlocking and stacking characteristics of these structural members result from the saddle shaped compound curvature of the hyperbolic paraboloids. These structural members can be combined in multiple ways to build aesthetic and utilitarian components such as beams, trusses, packaging foams, toys, as well as other repeating cellular, lattice and labyrinthal structures.

Abstract: A web structure including a generally octahedron-shaped frame having a first set of a plurality of points oriented in a first plane, and a second set of a plurality of points oriented in a second plane generally parallel to the first plane. The first and second sets of points are connected to each other by hyperbolic or curved segments.

Abstract: A method for forming a double-curved structure and double-curved structure formed using the same are provided. The method may include providing a flat mesh formed of a plurality of strands; interlinking the plurality of strands of the flat mesh using a plurality of cross-links; and adjusting the plurality of cross-links to form the double-curved structure.

Abstract: A three-dimensional, curved building module comprises a saddle-shaped membrane having four connecting edges for joining with like building modules and four truncating edges. Connecting members are formed along the linear edge surfaces for joining the modules in edge-to-edge relation with one another. The building modules permit construction of complex, three dimensional forms which divide space into two distinct but intertwining volumes. The building modules may be used as a child's construction toy, playground structures, sculptures, architectural structures.

Abstract: A tower structure including a central, vertical mast and a plurality of tensioned elongate elements arranged to support the mast against buckling, the plurality of tensioned elements together defining a generally hyperboloid structure and including a first plurality of elongate elements which define a multiplicity of junctions therebetween, a second plurality of junction-to-mast joining elongate elements which join at least some of the multiplicity of junctions to the central, vertical mast; and a third plurality of junction-to-junction joining elongate elements which are connected at a plurality of mutually spaced fixed locations therealong to the at least some of the multiplicity of junctions.

Abstract: An enclosing structure (1) comprising a backfill (2) and a roof (3), wherein the roof rests on the backfill and is attached to it.

Abstract: A tensegrity apparatus having multiple tensegrity units for the transmission of solitary waves with adjustable profiles into a material or structure, and the detection of such waves from a material or structure.

Abstract: A domed non-steel roof structure (10). The roof structure (10) including a plurality of non-steel, generally rectangular roof members (12). The roof members (12) each including: an upper surface (14); a lower surface (16); a pair of first opposed side surfaces (18a and 18b) diverging from the upper surface to the lower surface; a pair of second opposed side surfaces (20a and 20b) diverging from the upper surface to the lower surface; at least one first passage (22a) from one of the pair of the first side surfaces to the other of the pair of the first side surfaces; and at least one second passage (24a) from one of the pair of the second side surfaces to the other of the pair of the second side surfaces. The roof structure (10) also includes: a first cable (28) passing through the first passages in adjacent said roof members; and a second cable (29) passing through the second passages in adjacent said roof members.

Abstract: A building structure has a generally horizontally disposed modular roof made-up of a plurality of side-by-side roof units which are mutually joined. Each roof unit is constructed as a pair of spaced apart rigid skins shaped in such manner as to eliminate additional supporting structure and which are joined along mutual edges of the pair of skins and forming an interior space filled with a thermal insulator. One end of each of the roof units is curved in a downward arc. A skylight frame protrudes above an upper one of the pair of skins, the frame supporting an upwardly facing window. An electrical circuit includes LED lamps mounted in a lower one of the pair of skins with its illumination directed downwardly. The circuit may also include a motorized shade or a liquid crystal shade for limiting natural light transmission through the window.

Abstract: A domed non-steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three non-steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three non-steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.

Abstract: A domed steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.

Abstract: Disclosed are various building facade surface configurations and related methods. An exemplary facade includes grooved cavities that are configured in a manner that reflects summer (cooling season) insolation and absorbs winter (heating season) insolation. The effective absorptivities of the exemplary facade for various cavity reflectance characteristics, i.e., a wide range of diffuse and specular reflectance characteristics, are evaluated using a Monte Carlo model. The calculations in an illustrated embodiment are performed for the latitude of 41° N where both heating and cooling loads are significant. Embodiments of facades and other structures are similarly within the scope of the disclosure for locations of different latitudes and longitudes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fabric sail (1) which maintains a minimal surface. An elastic boundary is attached to the edges of an elastic membrane, and the edges (4) are shaped so that the membrane of the sail maintains a minimal surface configuration despite being deformed by the boundary. The sail therefore distributes strain across the sail surface and is thus free of wrinkles and creases. Points on the elastic membrane itself can be displaced but still form a minimal surface as defined by the boundary and the displaced surface connection points. In addition, strain matching allows the boundary and the elastic membrane to optimally share the strain caused by any deformation.

Abstract: The instant invention is a method for achieving a-planar framing configurations which enable the construction of hyperbolic paraboloid surfaces, a multiplicity of which join to create roof structures and enclosures. In particular, the shaping and erecting of connected a-planar quadrilateral frames to create under-framing which can be completed by a simple in-framing, and covered with sheeting material resulting in a new method of constructing enclosures with hyperbolic paraboloid faces without the use of highly trained crews, or the need for elaborate pre-forms or specialized connecting or covering elements. The additional methods of assembly and erection of a hypershelter described herein make possible even greater strength-to-weight ratios and more efficient construction procedures than was possible at the time of the original application.

Abstract: The instant invention is a method for achieving a-planar framing configurations which enable the construction of hyperbolic paraboloid surfaces, a multiplicity of which join to create roof structures and enclosures. In particular, the shaping and erecting of connected a-planar quadrilateral frames to create under-framing which can be completed by a simple in-framing, and covered with sheeting material resulting in a new method of constructing enclosures with hyperbolic paraboloid faces without the use of highly trained crews, or the need for elaborate pre-forms or specialized connecting or covering elements.

Abstract: The invention is a spherical dome consisting of continuous prismatic members in three layers, an outer layer, a middle layer, and an inner layer. The continuous prismatic members follow great circle arcs. The members of the three layers form a three-way grid, crossing at the vertices of contiguous spherical triangles. Three members, one from each layer, are connected together at each vertex with fasteners, such as bolts, rivets, or welds. The continuous prismatic members of each layer can be spaced as desired to provide structural integrity, economy, and simplicity of construction. A tension ring, when required structurally, is provided at the bottom periphery of the dome to resist the vertical and horizontal forces generated by the supported loads. The combined elements provide a simple and economical spherical dome.

Abstract: Utilizing the three different hyperbolic paraboloids which divide each of the defining tetrahedra (DT) in half, new geometric objects have been created which have unique stacking and interlocking characteristics and are inherently strong and rigid due to their triangular and hyperbolic paraboloid faces. These geometric objects can be utilized to build aesthetic and utilitarian components such as beams, trusses, packaging foams, toys, repeating cellular structures and others. The n-fold hyperbolic paraboloids are new geometric objects. The “n-” in the title stands for any integer greater than or equal to three. The fourfold hyperbolic paraboloid (FIG. 2C) has the special attribute of being space filling. Like the cube the fourfold hyperbolic paraboloids can be continuously stacked so that there is no unenclosed volume between them. All of the n-fold hyperbolic paraboloids have unique stacking and interlocking attributes.

Abstract: A building panel formed from sheet material extends in a longitudinal direction along its length and includes a curved center portion in cross section, a pair of side portions extending from the curved center portion, and a pair of connecting portions extending from the side portions. The curved center portion includes a plurality segments extending in the longitudinal direction. The panel is curved in the longitudinal direction without having transverse corrugations. A particular segment may have a depth greater than that of another segment to accommodate the longitudinal curve. A system for longitudinally curving the panel includes first and second curving assemblies, each of which includes multiple rollers arranged to contact the panel as it passes along, a positioning mechanism for changing a relative rotational orientation between the first and second curving assemblies, a drive system for moving the panel longitudinally, and a control system for controlling the positioning mechanism.

Abstract: A dome type clear-span roof construction, having an exterior, polygonal arch frame (1), and a pre-tensioned, doubly curved membrane cover (2), which is suspended from the arch frame and is tied down to anchors (9) along its perimeter. Underneath the arch frame, a single, continuous suspension cable (4), anchored to the arch's end supports (8), is alternately taken through a series of upper pulleys (6) secured to the underside of the arch break points, and lower pulleys (5) secured at similar spacing to the membrane's ridge line (3), creating a multiple block-and-tackle suspension mechanism in the full length of the arch. The suspension mechanism converts the random membrane loads into concentrated, identical arch loads. The centerline of the polygonal arch coincides with the constant pressure line of its concentrated loads, which therefore do not cause bending moments in the arch.

Abstract: A three-dimensional constructional element 10 is shown having opposing and substantially planar panels 30, 40 mounted on opposing surfaces of a flexible planar member in the form of a flexible mesh material layer 52 therefore making a composite sheet of three layers. Panel 30 includes transverse grooves 12, 14 formed therein and panel 40 includes transverse grooves 16, 18 formed therein. The structure is deformable about each groove 12, 14, 16, 18. In a preferred embodiment the panels 30, 40 are divided into many segments defined by the transverse grooves to allow the constructional element to be deformed so that one of the exterior surfaces of panel 30 is concave while the opposing exterior surface of panel 40 is convex.

Abstract: Triangulated shells can be free-formed but are uneconomical compared to translational shells that can only be flat. Scale-trans shells are limited in terms of number and arrangement of the openings. The present invention provides a free-formed, custom-tailored shell surface and a regularly shaped, mass-produced shell surface that can be assembled fairly evenly from advantageously quadrangular mesh elements having coplanar node points. The flexibility of a triangle net of shell pieces in a large scale is combined with the evenness of a quad net for meshes in a small scale, whereby triangular meshes at the shared side of adjoining square nets are combined in pairs to give irregular quadrangular meshes having coplanar vertices. The inventive shell is especially suitable for use as an energy-saving building such as a weekend home, emergency shelter, cupola of an observatory, roof of a building or an inner courtyard, as the shell of a large multi-story building or as a sports hall or factory building.

Abstract: The invention relates to a temporary construction that includes a roof panel (201), a facade panel (111), and a component for attaching (204) the roof panel (201) to the facade panel (111), the attachment component (204) having one end intended to be attached to the roof panel and one end intended to be attached to the facade panel, one of the ends of the component including a hook able to engage with an orifice (212) provided in one of the panels (201, 111) or in an element (202) attached to the panel, in order to tension the component (204) so as to keep the roof panel (201) supported on the facade panel (111). The component may to advantage include a length adjustment means to tighten the attachment if necessary.

Abstract: The instant invention is a method for achieving a-planar framing configurations which enable the construction of hyperbolic paraboloid surfaces, a multiplicity of which join to create roof structures and enclosures. In particular, the shaping and erecting of connected a-planar quadrilateral frames to create under-framing which can be completed by a simple in-framing, and covered with sheeting material resulting in a new method of constructing enclosures with hyperbolic paraboloid faces without the use of highly trained crews, or the need for elaborate pre-forms or specialized connecting or covering elements. The instant invention has the advantage that lateral forces are resolved directly along the leg members forming triangular openings at its periphery, and by the triangular configurations resulting when the tension restraining member is added to the framework. Triangular openings formed during construction can be used for doorways and windows without the need for dormers or skylights.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a free-standing structure which includes an eight-sided roof perimeter; at least four geodesic structures extending from four sides of the eight-sided roof perimeter and supporting the perimeter; and at least four legs, each leg structurally corresponding with one of the at least four geodesic structures for upholding the free-standing structure.

Abstract: A geometric construction system includes: a plurality of flat panels; and a plurality of connecting units provided on side edges of the flat panels. Each connecting unit includes first and second engaging parts. The first engaging part is formed with a protrusion, and the second engaging part is formed with a recess such that the protrusion of the first engaging part on one of the flat panels is releasably engageable with the recess of the second engaging part on another of the flat panels. The second engaging part is further formed with resilient claws that project from a periphery of the recess. The claws of the second engaging part on one of the flat panels clamp resiliently the protusion of the first engaging part on another of the flat panels when the protrusion is moved into the recess of the second engaging part.

Abstract: A storage facility for an airship includes a wall that is made from a plurality of box-like ISO containers. The wall surrounds an area on the ground, and a semicylindrical member is affixed to the top of the wall. This creates an enclosed volume over the area for the storage and protection of the airship. Buttresses for supporting the wall can be made from additional containers, and restraints can be used to secure the containers of the facility to each other.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a free-standing structure which includes an eight-sided roof perimeter; at least four geodesic structures extending from four sides of the eight-sided roof perimeter and supporting the perimeter; and at least four legs, each leg structurally corresponding with one of the at least four geodesic structures for upholding the free-standing structure.

Abstract: A new and useful Dome Kit, dome shaped structural system and method of assembling a dome shaped structural system are provided. The Dome Kit and method are used to form a dome shaped structural system comprising a compression ring, a lower ring that is larger than the compression ring and spaced below the compression ring, and a plurality of ribs connected with the compression ring. The lower ring, the compression ring, lower ring and connected ribs form a dome shaped structural system; i.e. a structural system with a dome shaped appearance.

Abstract: A building structure formed of at least one saddle element defining a plurality of edges and rigid structural elements extending along the edges of each of the at least one saddle element, the rigid structural elements being characterized in that they lie along diagonals of sides of a rectangular parallelepiped forming part of a modular array of rectangular parallelepiped geometrical structures underlying the at least one saddle element and may include octet-like beams or octet-like trusses Multiple saddle elements, either of a similar type or of varying types, may be combined into a wide variety of possible structures Saddle elements can be a tensioned membrane element or any other suitable material.

Abstract: Tensegrity units may be used to form a tensegrity structure. Each tensegrity unit may include n face tension members, n continuous tension members, and n compression members. A bracket for the tensegrity unit may allow for adjustment of position of portions of the tension members when the tensegrity unit is not in a deployed state. The tension members may be coupled to the tensegrity unit so that there are no loose tension member ends. The unit may be deployed from a collapsed state by positioning the compression members and tension members in a proper orientation and adjusting the length of at least one compression member. Adjusting the length of at least the one compression member may allow tension to be applied to each tension member. A tensegrity structure may be formed from tensegrity units by joining a number of tensegrity units together.

Abstract: A plurality of compression members are arranged to provide a shape. Each compression member has a first end, a second end and a body. At least one of the compression members has a body which is generally non-congruous with a straight line between its first and second ends. At least one tensile member is coupled to at least two compression members. At least one removable ligature can be coupled to at least two compression members, such that the structure is collapsible. At least one surface can be coupled to at least one compression member, forming at least one curved surface of a toroid.

Abstract: A building structure formed of at least one saddle element defining a plurality of edges and rigid structural elements extending along the edges of each of the at least one saddle element, the rigid structural elements being characterized in that they lie along diagonals of sides of a rectangular parallelepiped forming part of a modular array of rectangular parallelepiped geometrical structures underlying the at least one saddle element and may include octet-like beams or octet-like trusses Multiple saddle elements, either of a similar type or of varying types, may be combined into a wide variety of possible structures Saddle elements can be a tensioned membrane element or any other suitable material

Abstract: A flashing for sealing about a roof penetration includes a first sheet having a first edge. The first sheet includes a substantially planar portion and a portion that is inclined with respect to the planar portion. The inclined portion has a recess open at the first edge. A second sheet has a first edge. The second sheet includes a substantially planar portion and a portion that is inclined with respect to the planar portion. The inclined portion has a recess open at the first edge.

Abstract: Disclosure provides a transformable linked structure, a deployable diagonal structure, a plane stowage-type deployable truss and a line stowage-type deployable truss with high rigidity and reliability constituted by the above-described transformable linked structure and the above-described deployable diagonal structure, and also provides a plane/line stowage truss structure extremely approximated to a spherical surface using the two types of deployable trusses. The present disclosure discloses a module linked structure for linking deployable trusses securely and a holding/releasing mechanism for realizing reliable holding and release. Further, the present invention provides a modular deployable antenna with high precision even if it is large-sized which is realized by spreading mesh on the plane/line stowage truss structure.

Abstract: Disclosed is a monolithic prefabricated structure that is wind and impact resistant. This special pre-cast lightweight concrete structure is a blend of special aggregates and additives combined to resist the impacts of flying debris and extremes of weather. The curved exterior surface minimizes wind friction and deflects debris. The circular structure has a low center of gravity and firm attachment to a floor made of concrete. It has protected ventilation openings, viewing ports and a strong smooth-fitting door.

Abstract: A living unit comprising a truncated elliptical shell. The shell comprises a lower truncated end and an elliptical upper end. A floor is attached to the shell parallel to the truncated end. A temperature control system adjusts the air temperature in the living unit by convection. The temperature control system comprises a cistern for storing water below the floor. A heating system, for heating the water, comprises a multiplicity of solar cells attached to the shell. A cooling system, comprising pipes below ground, cool the water by dissipation of heat into the ground. A network selectively circulates the water either between the cistern and the heating system or between the cistern and the cooling system.

Abstract: An inflatable object includes interior attachment points to opposing interior faces of the object and rope or cord connections between these attachment points. The opposing walls have interior faces which include attachment points adapted to be connected together by predetermined lengths of material, the arrangement being such that upon inflation of the device, the walls are held in position relative to one another by the lengths of material. The connection material between the inner and outer panels is a flexible cord-like material. However any appropriate material may be used. The attachment points are located on webbing strips attached to the interior face of each wall at a seam, provided with eyelets. In the preferred embodiment, the cords are maintained at an angle substantially or averaging substantially 90 degrees from the inner and outer surfaces.

Abstract: An underground tornado shelter having a double-hull design is constructed through a rotational molding process from any one of a variety of materials, such as linear medium-density polyethylene. The tornado shelter has a dome-shaped upper half and a hemispherical lower half. Each half includes a flange, an inner wall, and an outer wall. The outer wall may include planar wall portions, indentation portions, and rib portions. The tornado shelter can also have an anchoring system that is integral with the lower half of the shelter and is formed through the same rotational molding process used to shape the rest of the lower half. Pipes can be inserted into the pipe alignment grooves in the anchoring system, and secured in place with plates bolted to the anchoring system across pipe alignment grooves.

Abstract: The invention relates to building structures of the type comprising arched frame members supporting panels of flexible materials such as weather resistant fabric. Problems accompanying the use of separate panels extending between frame members are overcome by providing connecting members on the frame members, and panels having means for attachment to the connecting members and flaps of flexible material adjacent to but spaced from the side margins of the panels, the connecting members slidably engage the means for attachment and have a channel to receive the flaps. The flaps are secured in the channel to provide weatherproof connections between the panels.

Abstract: A support structure including a first and a second upper ring member. The support structure further includes a lower circular foundation of a diameter greater than the diameters of the first and second upper ring members. A plurality of initially straight and elongated structural members extend from each of the upper ring members. Extending from each of the ring members are an equal number of structural members. The structural members extend radially at angular intervals on both the upper and lower rings. Each of the structural members have a first and a second lateral end. The structural members are secured at their first lateral ends to either the first or second upper ring members. The structural members are further secured at their second lateral ends to the lower foundation. Thereafter, the structural members are manipulated to create a lattice formation comprised of S-shaped, elastically-modified structural members.

Abstract: The present invention provides a transformable linked structure, a deployable diagonal structure, a plane stowage-type deployable truss and a line stowage-type deployable truss with high rigidity and reliability constituted by the above-described transformable linked structure and the above-described deployable diagonal structure, and also provides a plane/line stowage truss structure extremely approximated to a spherical surface using the two types of deployable trusses. The present invention discloses a module linked structure for linking deployable trusses securely and a holding/releasing mechanism for realizing reliable holding and release. Further, the present invention provides a modular deployable antenna with high precision even if it is large-sized which is realized by spreading mesh on the plane/line stowage truss structure.

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: The present invention provides a transformable linked structure, a deployable diagonal structure, a plane stowage-type deployable truss and a line stowage-type deployable truss with high rigidity and reliability constituted by the above-described transformable linked structure and the above-described deployable diagonal structure, and also provides a plane/line stowage truss structure extremely approximated to a spherical surface using the two types of deployable trusses. The present invention discloses a module linked structure for linking deployable trusses securely and a holding/releasing mechanism for realizing reliable holding and release. Further, the present invention provides a modular deployable antenna with high precision even if it is large-sized which is realized by spreading mesh on the plane/line stowage truss structure.