This document discusses space frame structures. Space frames are truss-like, lightweight rigid structures constructed from interlocking struts in a geometric pattern. They can span large areas with few interior supports because loads are transmitted as tension and compression along struts. Space frames are classified according to number of grid layers (single, double, triple) and curvature (flat, barrel vaults, domes). They are constructed using node joints and connecting various structural members. Design considerations include connection types and erection methods like scaffold, block assembly, and lift-up. Applications include platforms, arenas, and enclosures.

1. BUILDING CONSTRUCTION & MATERIAL
SUBMITTED BY:
Abhay Gupta
Amit Verma
Neharika Rathore
Noopur Baghel
Shubham Sharma
“ Space Frame Structures ”

2. •A truss-like, lightweight rigid structure constructed from interlocking struts in a geometric pattern.
•Space frames can be used to span large areas with few interior supports.
•A space frame is strong because of :
 The inherent rigidity of the triangle;
 Flexing loads (bending moments) are transmitted as tension and compression loads along the
length of each strut.
INTRODUCTION
LOAD
DISTRIBUTION

3. Horizontal slab of interlocking square, pyramids and tetrahedral
built from aluminium or tubular steel struts.
• Stronger form is composed of interlocking tetrahedral in which all the struts have unit length.
• More technically this is referred to as an
isotropic vector matrix or in a single unit width
an octet truss.
• More complex variations change the lengths of the struts
• To curve the over all structure ,may incorporation of other
geometrical shapes required.
• The influence of bending moment is
insignificant.
• The span-depth ratio varies from 12.5 to 25,
or even more.
• The depth can be relatively small when
compared with more conventional
structures.

5. According To Number Of Grid LayersAccording To Curvature
Flat covers
Barrel vaults
Spherical domes
Single-layer
Double-layer
Triple-layer
CLASSIFICATION
TYPES OF SPACE FRAMES

6. ACCORDING TO CURVATURE
1. Flat covers
• These structures are composed of planar substructures.
• The plane are channelled through the horizontal bars and the shear forces are supported
by the diagonals.

7. 2. Barrel vaults
• This type of vault has a cross section of a simple arch.
• Usually this type of space frame does not need to use tetrahedral modules or pyramids as a
part of its backing.
LOAD DISTRIBUTION

8. 3. Spherical domes
• These domes usually require the use of tetrahedral modules or pyramids and additional
support from a skin.
CONSTRUCTION LAYERS OF DOUBLE BRACCED DOME
FREE FORM SPACE FRAME

9. ACCORDING TO NUMBER OF GRID LAYERS
1. Single layer
• All elements are located on the surface to be approximated

10. 2. Double layer
• The elements are organized in two parallel layers with each other at a certain distance
part.
• The diagonal bars connecting the nodes of both layers in different directions in space.

11. 3. Triple layer
• Elements are placed in three parallel layers, linked by the diagonals.
• They are almost always flat.
• This solution is to decrease the diagonal members length.

12. SPACE FRAME CONNECTIONS

13. COMPONENTS
Members Joints
• Axial elements with circular or
rectangular sections , all members can
only resist tension or compression.
• The space grid is built of relatively long
tension members and short compression
members.
• A trend in which the structural elements
are left exposed as a part of the
architectural expression.
• Connecting joints- both functional and
aesthetic.
• Joints have a decisive effect on the
strength and stiffness of the structure
and compose around 20-30 percent of the
total weight.
 In space frame truss m=3n-6, where m is total number of members and n is total
number of joints.

14. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

15. MERO SPACE FRAME SYSTEM
• The Mero connector, introduced in 1948 by Dr, Mongeringhausen ,
proved to be extremely popular and has been used for numerous
temporary and permanent buildings.
• Its joint consist of a node that is a spherical hot-presses steel
forging with flat facets and tapped holes.
• Members are circular hollow sections with cone-shaped steel
forging welded at the ends, which accommodate connecting bolts.
• Originally developed for double-layer grids.
• Due to the increasing use of non-planar roof forms- load bearing
space frame integrated with the cladding element.
• A new type of joining system called Mero Plus System was
developed so that a variety of curved and folded structures are
possible.

16. METHODS OF ERECTION
Scaffold method Block Assembly method Lift-up method
• Individual elements are
assembled in place at
actual elevations
• Members and joints or
prefab subassembly
elements are assembled on
their final position.
• Full scaffoldings usually.
• Sometimes partial
scaffolding are used if
cantilever erection.
• Elements fabricated at the
shop
• Transported to the
construction site, and no
heavy lifting equipment is
required.
• Divided on its plan into
individual strips or blocks.
• These units fabricated on
the ground level. Then
hoisted upon into its final
position and assembled on
the temporary supports.
• Suitable for double layer
grids.
• The whole space frame is
assembled at the ground
level so that most of the
work can be done before
hoisting.
• Increased efficiency and
better quality.

17. SCAFFOLD METHOD
LIFT UP METHOD
BLOCK ASSEMBLY METHOD

18. GEOMTERIC DECODING OF SPACE FRAME
• The space frame grid geometry takes 5 geometric
operations to created the corresponding grid to
ultimately created a double layer space frame.
• The vertices on the grid(gi) are connected to
identify the 3 dimensional joint(3dn) and by
connecting the 3dn the semi-regular is
constructed.

19. APPLICATIONS
• For a platform overhead structure that spans large distances
without need for internal load bearing support.
• New and imaginative applications are being demonstrated in
the total range of building types , such as sports arenas
exhibition pavilions,
assembly halls,
transportation terminals,
airplane hangars,
workshops, and warehouses.
• Also used on mid and short span enclosure as roofs , floors,
and exterior walls.
LOUVRE PYRAMID
INDIAN HABITAT CENTER
STANSTEAD
LONDON AIRPORT

20. Lightweight • The material is distributed spatially in such a way
that the load transfer mechanism is primarily axial;
tension and compression.
• Consequently, all material in any given element is
utilized to its full extent.
• Aluminium decreases considerably their self-weight.
Mass Productivity • Can be built from simple prefabricated units, which
are often of standard size and shape.
• Easily transported
• Rapidly assembled on site.
• Therefore it can be built at lower cost.
Stiffness • Sufficiently stiff in spite of its lightness.
• This is due to its three-dimensional character and to
the full participation of its constituent elements.
Versatility • Possess a versatility of shape and form and can
utilize a standard module to generate various flat
space grids, latticed shell, or even free-form shapes.
ADVANTAGES