Abstract: A spherical screen module unit includes a sector base including a sector carrier having an inner and outer arc edges; arc length of the outer arc edge is greater than that of the inner arc edge. An inner ramp frame is on the sector carrier and closer to the inner arc edge; an outer ramp frame is on the sector carrier and closer to the outer arc edge. When the spherical screen module unit is on a spherical screen assembling surface, minimum distance between the inner ramp frame upper surface and the spherical screen assembling surface is first height; maximum distance between the outer ramp frame upper surface and the spherical screen assembling surface is second height which is greater than the first height. A spherical screen structure including spherical screen module unit facilitates the module unit disassembly for repair, maintenance, or angle adjustment, and increases applicability in different environments.

Abstract: A joint connector comprising a hub, two registration caps, a bolt assembly or similar means of connecting the components, and at least two wing pairs. The joint connector is adaptable and thus is capable of creating a variety of different joint networks. Joint connectors can be arranged to connect panel frames and panels for regularly faceted structures and asymmetrical or irregularly shaped structures.

Abstract: The present invention relates an exercising system. The exercising system is a geodesic dome structure coupled with an exercise device such as a flywheel. The geodesic dome is made up of multiple struts coupled to each other at multiple hubs. The exercise device is engaged with the hub to allow a user to exercise through the flywheel.

Abstract: A dome- or sphere-shaped multipurpose building is disclosed, which is a prefabricated quickly erected structure and can be used for erecting the buildings of various functional purpose, of different number of floors, both heated and unheated, including residential buildings, cottages, industrial, administrative, sport, temporary portable buildings, arch structure. Technical result of the claimed invention is to reduce the material consumption, installation time, increase the strength and stability of the building, including under conditions of asymmetrical and dynamic loads, and to increase energy efficiency and translucence of the building.

Abstract: A support-framework (1) supports a surface (2), or supported elements, at a designed variable spacing from a support surface (3), using elongate supports (4) of rod-from or tubular-form that act as ties or struts. Each support (4) is anchored at one of its ends to the supported surface (2) or element and, at the other end, to the support surface (3). The anchoring at each end is via a node N that involves an individual domed-member (5) which is secured to the relevant surface (2, 3) or supported element, and which has a part-spherical surface (6) to which the elongate supports (4) are anchored to extend radially by a coupling (12). The domed-members (5) are metallic or plastics, and may each be hemispherical having an outwardly directed equatorial flange (7) by which they are secured to the relevant surface (2, 3) or supported element.

Abstract: A bulkhead employs a substantially spherical dome having a periphery and an apex with an axis perpendicular to the dome at the apex. A first plurality of straps emanate from a periphery of the dome on geodesics defined by a first pair of virtual poles beyond the periphery of the dome. A second plurality of straps emanate from the periphery of the dome on second geodesics defined by a second pair of virtual poles beyond the periphery of the dome, wherein any overlap on an individual strap in the first plurality of straps is singular to only one individual strap in the second plurality of straps.

Abstract: The invention includes a work platform and support system that includes a hub and joist configuration, wherein the hubs and joists are capable of articulation, or pivoting. One method of installation allows for sections of new work platform system to be extended from an existing suspended work platform system. The system is also capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load applied to it.

Abstract: A weatherproof fabric-covered building system for preventing water damage and leakage. The weatherproof fabric-covered building system generally includes a plurality of connecting members attached to a corresponding plurality of trusses, a plurality of fabric panels connected between the connecting members and a plurality of cap members connected to the connecting members to prevent water from entering the interior of the building structure.

Abstract: A node for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a support frame such as a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A method for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A system for supporting solar reflectors includes a first support frame upon which the solar reflectors are disposed. A method for forming a support frame for solar reflectors. A system for constructing a support frame from parts, including chords, for solar reflectors. A method for constructing a support frame for solar reflectors. A support frame for solar reflectors.

Abstract: A hybrid geodesic structure includes a core structure and a geodesic shell surrounding the core structure. The core structure extends from a base at a center of the geodesic shell through an upper extent of the geodesic shell opposite to the base. The core structure supports the geodesic shell at an upper extent and includes a roof.

Abstract: Described herein is a structure that comprises a plurality of spherical triangular units on a plurality of levels. The structure has a superior ability to survive disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes etc. It is cost-efficient, energy efficient, extremely durable and easily maintained. The plurality of spherical triangular units on one level of the plurality of levels are essentially identical to each other, and are essentially equally spaced radially relative to a center of the sphere; each of the plurality of spherical triangular units comprises three planar panels, each with an end surface comprising a minor arc of a great circle of the sphere; a spherical triangular unit on a level above the first level of the structure is configured to be joined with two neighboring spherical triangular units on the level below; the structure is substantially a dome.

Abstract: Deployable support structures include a six-bar linkage structure as a lateral facet of a truncated pyramid. The six-bar linkage structure comprises six articulated struts, each coupled to two others by a revolute joint to form a closed loop. The six-bar linkage structure is convertible from a deployed state into a folded state and vice versa. In the deployed state of one embodiment, the six-bar linkage structure forms a trapezoid with two opposing first and second parallel sides formed by two struts arranged in series and coupled by a revolute joint at the center of the parallel sides. In the folded state, the two struts of each parallel side are pivoted around the joint so that opposing end portions of the struts are located side by side. Scalable and modular deployable structures can be made for space applications as well as civil constructions such as domes, roofs, housing, tents, and bridges.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to geodesic dome structures. More particularly, the present invention relates to a hub and strut connection for a geodesic dome structure and method for making same. The apparatus described herein provides a unique design for a geodesic dome utilizing materials that are affordable and readily available throughout much of the world for the construction and connection of hubs and struts.

Abstract: A structural apparatus for carrying loads and transferring forces to ground, the apparatus having a plurality of nodes, each having a spherical core, the core having a spherical surface. Each one of the nodes having a plurality of housing frames secured in fixed selected positions in contact with the surface. Each one of the nodes having a plurality of housing hubs secured by the housing frames in contact with the surface and free to circularly rotate about a radius of the core, and each one of the nodes has a plurality of fasteners, each of the fastener having a head and a shaft extending from the head, the head constrained between the surface and a housing hub positioning the shaft in a radial attitude relative to the core. A plurality of struts interconnect the nodes and the struts are joined with the shafts at their opposing ends.

Abstract: Described herein is a structure that comprises a plurality of spherical triangular units on a plurality of levels. The structure has a superior ability to survive disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes etc. It is cost-efficient, energy efficient, extremely durable and easily maintained. The plurality of spherical triangular units on one level of the plurality of levels are essentially identical to each other, and are essentially equally spaced radially relative to a center of the sphere; each of the plurality of spherical triangular units comprises three planar panels, each with an end surface comprising a minor arc of a great circle of the sphere; a spherical triangular unit on a level above the first level of the structure is configured to be joined with two neighboring spherical triangular units on the level below; the structure is substantially a dome.

Abstract: An improved universal hub and strut system for a geodesic enclosure framework is disclosed. The universal hub and strut system disclosed herein allows a geodesic structure to be more quickly assembled and with increased integrity. The geodesic structure is assembled by interconnecting a plurality of universal hubs and struts at each vertex of a geodesic spatial framework. To connect a strut to a universal hub of the present system, a strut-tab on a strut end overlaps a hub-tab of the universal hub, which is secured together via a fastening means through the respective ports. Based on the flexibility of the hub-tabs, the geodesic structure design disclosed herein may depart from the geometric designs associated with traditional geodesic structures. The invention may be applied in any geodesic type dome, structure, or enclosure.

Abstract: A 3-dimensional, upwardly convex frame (40) constructed from a plurality of substantially identical longitudinally extending frame members (42). The frame (40) includes: the frame members (42) connected at approximately their ends to above approximately the middle of adjacent frame members (42) and the frame members (42) connected at approximately their middle to below approximately the ends of adjacent frame members (42) in a generally outwardly extending sequence. The outwardly facing ends of the outermost frame members (42) are un-connected.

Abstract: A wire rope tension grid is a walking surface comprised of interwoven wire rope. The wire rope is supported by a framework of steel angle and tubing. The framework is supported by mounts that are hung from the support beams in the ceiling of a structure, often a performing art center, a television studio, a black box theater, museum dioramas, theme park scenes, live animal pens, or other entertainment venues. These grids are not intended for public usage, but rather are intended for operation staff. New improvements to these grids are listed in this document.

Abstract: A locking collar that surrounds a hub of a space frame structure. Struts radiating from the hub pass through openings in the locking collar. The openings each have a size relative to a width of each of the struts that provides a locking action to the struts and limits movement of the struts, which gives support to a shape of the space frame. The locking collar provides support to beams of wood or other materials that are attached to the struts without placing stress on the hub.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system for connecting tubes or rods, which are preferably uni-directional pultruded, filament wound, or roll-wrapped carbon-fiber tubes or rods, together to form trusses and other structures using a series of connector pieces preferably bonded together with adhesive.

Abstract: An improved universal hub and strut system for a geodesic enclosure framework is disclosed. The universal hub and strut system disclosed herein allows a geodesic structure to be more quickly assembled and with increased integrity. The geodesic structure is assembled by interconnecting a plurality of universal hubs and struts at each vertex of a geodesic spatial framework. To connect a strut to a universal hub of the present system, a strut-tab on a strut end overlaps a hub-tab of the universal hub, which is secured together via a fastening means through the respective ports. Based on the flexibility of the hub-tabs, the geodesic structure design disclosed herein may depart from the geometric designs associated with traditional geodesic structures. The invention may be applied in any geodesic type dome, structure, or enclosure.

Abstract: Support structure for solar collector for use in cylindrical parabolic collectors to support a cylindrical parabolic reflector and an absorbing tube The structure includes a main bearing structure on which a plurality of support arms for the parabolic mirrors are supported The main bearing structure is formed by two rectangular lattice grids, a top one and another bottom one, in a parallel and overlaying arrangement, linked together by four laterally-disposed mini-lattices, in twos at each end, and by a plurality of external lateral ties bars and internal diagonal tie bars.

Abstract: A system for making a truss from joinable bar elements. The bar elements are at least in part of plant material from high-growing plants. The system further includes connecting elements to interconnect at least two of the bar elements, the bar elements and connecting elements being adapted to be connected to each other to form the truss.

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: 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 structure (500) comprises a plurality of struts (505) of equal or a reduced number of differing lengths. The struts are held in place by hubs (510, 515, 1400). In one aspect, a first hub secures the ends of inserted struts at a constant distance from its center, while other hubs secure the ends of inserted struts at predetermined distances from their centers. The differences between the various predetermined distances is the difference in strut lengths required by the design of the structure. Thus all struts are of equal length and identical, or a reduced number of lengths, resulting in an economy of scale and ease of construction. A cover can be added after the structure is built. Alternatively, the hubs can be sewn into a fabric or plastic cover for further ease of construction. The struts can be glued in place, or removed from the hubs to disassemble the structure.

Abstract: A new and useful Dome Kit, dome shaped structural system and method of assembling a dome shaped structural system is 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. New and useful structure is provided for coupling the ribs to the compression ring and to the lower ring. Such structure is particularly useful when the ribs are formed of metal (e.g. steel).

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to geodesic dome structures. More particularly, the present invention relates to a hub and strut connection for a geodesic dome structure and method for making same. The apparatus described herein provides a unique design for a geodesic dome utilizing materials that are affordable and readily available throughout much of the world for the construction and connection of hubs and struts.

Abstract: A connector for a geodesic dome comprises a first coupler, a second coupler, and a third coupler. Each coupler is configured to couple with a segment, which may be a substantially straight segment. Each coupler is placed at an angle with respect to the other two couplers and with a horizontal plane, such that a geodesic dome may be constructed using a plurality of the same connectors and a plurality of the same segments.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a shelter includes a first hub configured to be moveably coupled to a plurality of support linkages. The shelter excludes a second hub different than the first hub. The shelter includes a support linkage from the plurality of support linkages. The support linkage is pivotally coupled to the first hub. The support linkage is moveable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The support linkage includes a first member and a second member pivotally coupled to the first member. An angle formed by an intersection between a longitudinal axis defined by the first member and a longitudinal axis defined by the second member is less than 180 degrees when the support linkage is in its collapsed configuration. The angle is greater than 180 degrees when the support linkage is in its expanded configuration.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting node (10, 20) for constructing a three-dimensional framework (100), in particular a geodetic structure, wherein the connecting node (10, 20) has at least one connecting arrangement for connection by way of a definable number of (n) of basic structural elements (3) attached to the respective connecting node (10, 20) with other identical connecting nodes (10, 20). It is provided that the connecting node (10, 20) is formed as a disk (4, 6) having a predefinable number (n) of keyholes (1n), with each of the keyholes (1n) being penetrated by a connecting means (5) and engaging with a receiving element (3A) attached on the basic structural elements (3n), so that each basic structural element (3n) is rotatably supported in the formed first connecting arrangement (5, 3A) and can be pre-adjusted and subsequently attached at arbitrary predefinable angles.

Abstract: Collapsible portable self-supporting shelter structures having from at least two component quad sections to seven or more component quad sections, which joined end to end form the width of the structure; and, said entire component sections optionally being joined side to side form a desired depth of the portable shelter. The resulting structure is a collapsible self-supporting prefabricated deployable shelter having a clear span interior without supporting columns. Some versions of the collapsible portable self-supporting shelter structure due to its configuration may optionally contain a floating hub which is a top element extending above the structure's standard exterior matrix frame. The floating hub forms a high pitch atop the shelter, which high pitch causes the fabric, which covers the matrix frame, to be maintained in a taut downward-sloping condition over the shelter top surface so no rain or snow collects in the fabric at the top of the shelter.

Abstract: A hub joint includes a metal rod and pin for joining tubular members in three-dimensional space for assembling a frame structure. The hub joint enables rapid assembly, rapid reconfiguration, and rapid disassembly without using any specialized tools. Multiple hub joints may be used to form geodesic domes, freestanding trusses, space frame slabs, tetrahedrons, and pentahedrons. The hub joints allow different frame configurations that are lightweight, strong, durable, scalable, expandable, and portable.

Abstract: Deployable structures and methods for assembling the same including a structural mechanism defining a columnar space comprising a plurality of structural members, a plurality of couplings and a plurality of tension lines, wherein each of the couplings interconnects three of the structural members and each of the tension lines interconnects one of the couplings and one of the structural members. Each of the tension lines interconnects one of the couplings and an end of one of the structural members not interconnected with one of the couplings. A columnar space, devoid of any structural members, is centrally located within the structural mechanism. Each of the couplings interconnects two of three structural members such that they are substantially aligned along their respective longitudinal axes and the third of the three structural members is interconnected such that its longitudinal axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the other two structural members.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting node (10, 20) for constructing a three-dimensional framework (100), in particular a geodetic structure, wherein the connecting node (10, 20) has at least one connecting arrangement for connection by way of a definable number of (n) of basic structural elements (3) attached to the respective connecting node (10, 20) with other identical connecting nodes (10, 20). It is provided that the connecting node (10, 20) is formed as a disk (4, 6) having a predefinable number (n) of keyholes (1n), with each of the keyholes (1n) being penetrated by a connecting means (5) and engaging with a receiving element (3A) attached on the basic structural elements (3n), so that each basic structural element (3n) is rotatably supported in the formed first connecting arrangement (5, 3A) and can be pre-adjusted and subsequently attached at arbitrary predefinable angles.

Abstract: Terraced structured land joint and assembly system is disclosed, and includes a plurality of ball joints, each providing monolithic anchors for a plurality of compression and tension members. Tension members reside within compression members. Compression/tension members are linked between ball joints by couplers and turnbuckles, defining structured land including planar space frames, horizontal truss members, and vertical truss members. Structural forces are transferred through the ball joints into horizontal and vertical truss members, with resultant loads transferred to the ground.

Abstract: A collapsible support structure comprises a plurality of interconnected substantially triangular frame sections connected by flexible joints at corners thereof. At least some of the interconnected frame sections share a collapsible tubular member as one side of the interconnected triangular frame sections and at least some of the ends of rigid tubular members of the interconnected frame sections are disposed between adjacent shared collapsible tubular members. An elongated flexible tensioning member extends through the shared collapsible tubular members and between the ends of the rigid tubular members disposed between adjacent shared collapsible tubular members. The rigid tubular members of some of the interconnected frame sections form a frame roof with ends thereof tied to form a flexible joint at the apex frame roof.

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: A dismantable, self sufficient, foundationless, partially subterranean, spherically shaped dwelling unit adapted for human dwelling, comprising inter alia of a dismantable spherical space mesh structural support, comprised of a plurality of nucleus joint and rod systems, a plurality of dismantable floor members comprised of a plurality of nucleus joint and rod systems, a plurality of dismantable wall members comprised of a plurality of nucleus joint and rod systems, a central elevator shaft, an elevator means, a plurality of power generating, means for generating electric power, a water accumulation and purification system, and a plurality of interchangeable service units that allow for a dwelling unit that can be adapted for a variety of different living styles and appearances. As such, the dwelling unit contemplated by the present invention provides a level of variation and owner input that is not currently available in the traditional construction industry.

Abstract: A dome connector including a hub portion and at least one pair of strut portions. The at least one pair of strut portions attached to and extending from the hub portion. Each of the strut portions has an upper end, a lower end and an intermediate region between the upper end and the lower end. The intermediate region has a greater thickness than the upper end and the lower end.

Abstract: The present invention sets forth a tile and strut construction system for a geodesic dome. The tile has a generally triangular shape, with the corners cut out to accommodate hubs which retain supporting struts in position. The tile has a faceted 3-dimensional upper surface, integrally molded reinforcing ribs, a recess in the lower surface at each of its 3 edges.

Abstract: An array comprises a plurality of ring elements and a plurality of mortar elements. The ring elements comprise polyhedroids interconnected to one another to form a closed ring shape, with the polyhedroids having a generally polyhedral shape. The mortar elements are configured to connect ring elements to each other.

Abstract: A joint system for joining polyhedric facet elements together. Polyhedrons have a plurality of facets. The polyhedric facet elements have facet planes that are generally congruent with the facets of the polyhedrons in which they are found. Various facet elements occupy angular relationships such that they can be joined in rigid stable joints by means of key elements where the planes of the key elements extend generally perpendicular to the planes of each of the facet elements. The joint system is suitable for inter-polyhedron joint systems where the joints include four joint elements, three of which are in the respective polyhedrons that are to be joined, and the fourth is a key element perpendicularly disposed between the other three joint elements.

Abstract: A fixture holder comprising a plate having one or more mounting holes; a base support having a threaded through hole, said base support affixed to a first side of the plate by a threaded ferrule, said ferrule passing through the plate and being affixed to the plate by a fastener on a second side of the plate; said base support having one or more armatures extending perpendicular to the plate and proximately located peripherally about the threaded through hole such that the threaded through hole is not obstructed; and a conduit connector affixed to the threaded ferrule, for providing a connection to an electrical conduit, wherein said armature has at least one female threaded hole disposed thereon and the plate, base support and conduit connector form a lumen through the fixture holder.

Abstract: A movable support armature for a curved reflector of electromagnetic radiation is defined substantially as a double layer grid space frame. The armature has plural parallel major chord framing members each having an elongate axis and disposed in a frame major surface. The major chord members include a pair of bottom major chord members essentially in a bottom one of the frame major surfaces. Upper major chord members include a central chord member which is located between two outer upper chord members. The outer chord members lie in respective ones of two planes which also include the central upper chord member; the planes intersect at the central chord member at an included angle which is concave away from the frame bottom plane. Node connector structures are disposed at spaced locations along each major chord member.

Abstract: The disclosure depicts a high-strength yet lightweight material composed of interconnected struts that typically form a tetrahedral lattice structure.

Abstract: The present invention provides a modular construction system to be applied to buildings, comprising a steel structure composed by octagonal tubing that acts as external beams, octagonal tubing that acts as external beams, octagonal tubing that acts as internal beams, structural connections, cross members for the roof structure, a hollow roof ridge member, panels acting as structural walls and partitions, bracing plates to connect the panels, external finishing member and internal finishing member, whereas the whole structure is anchored to the floor. When creating an edge column to connect the panels to the steel structure, internal angular shaped bracing plates are used and external ones with a shape similar to letter “C”, provided with holes along the length for the bolts and connection slot to connect the external finishing member by means of internal clips with a rim for connection to the clamp through the recesses arranged in the interior.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for providing a collapsible support structure strut, which may include a strut member; a hollow tubular terminal end portion of the strut member having an inner surface; and a detachable looped eyelet having at least one loop and a pair of extending legs, the legs being springedly biased to engage the tubular terminal end of the strut, thereby frictionally holding the looped eyelet in place at the terminal end of the strut. The apparatus and method may also employ a holding plug, with first and second holding groove opposingly placed in the periphery of the holding plug, having at least a portion thereof that is shaped and sized to frictionally engage the inner surface of the tubular terminal end of the strut, to frictionally hold the holding plug in engagement with the strut. The detachable looped eyelet may also have at least two loop.

Abstract: A connection node for a double layer grid or truss system has at least one diagonal flange receiving a pair of diagonal framing members having surfaces that lie in a single diagonal plane parallel to the flange(s). Use of co-planar diagonal members that can be at various diagonal angles or vertical, simplifies node connections and permits variations in bay spacing to produce interesting architectural effects and to provide greater member density where structural loads are greater.

Abstract: In an architectural system, a triangular base engages an extension. The base includes three complete struts substantially aligned along their respective axes. These axes each intersect each other to form a triangle contained in a base plane. The triangle's vertices each correspond to a respective nucleus of nodes called A, B and C. This forms three base angles. The first angle has a positive value about equal to [j×20.9°+k×31.7°+m×36°+n×37.4°], where j, k, m and n are each an integer less than three. The second angle also has a positive value about equal to [q×20.9°+r×31.7°+s×36°+t×37.4°], where q, r, s and t are each an integer less than three. The third node engages the second and third complete struts and must be large enough to maintain the third base angle at a positive value less than 60°. At least one of the base triangle struts comprises two or more rigid pieces able to move apart so as to produce a strut elongation.