Space frames are three-dimensional structures composed of interconnected linear elements that transfer loads through a grid-like network. They are designed without intermediate columns, creating large open interior spaces. Space frames come in various types including two-way and three-way grids, and can be single, double, or triple-layered. They consist of tubular members and specialized connectors, such as tuball nodes, nodus connectors, and triodetic connectors. Space frames are light, economical, stiff structures that allow freedom in building design and easy integration of services. Examples include the San Siro Stadium in Milan and Stansted Airport in London.

1. BUILDING
CONSTRUCTION
SPACE FRAME

2. DEFINITION:
 A three-dimensional structures.
 The assembled linear elements are arranged to
transfer the load.
 Take a form of a flat surface or curve surface.
 Designed with no intermediate columns to create
large open area.

3. Load Distribution

4. TYPES OF SPACE FRAME
1) Two and three-way grids
 Characterized as two way or three way
2) Single, Double and Triple Layered
 Single layer frame has to be singly or doubly
curved.
 Commonly used space frames are double
layered and flat.
 Triple layered is practically used for a large
span building.

5. COMPONENTS OF SPACE
FRAME
 Consists of axial members : which are tubes
and connectors

6. TUBES
1) Circular Hollow Sections
2) Rectangular Hollow Sections

7. CONNECTORS
1) Tuball Node Connector
 A hollow sphere made of spheroidal graphite
 The end of the circular hollow section member
to be connected is fitted at its ends by welding.
 Connection from inside the cup is using bolt
and nut.

9. 2) Nodus Connector
 It can accept both rectangular and circular
hollow sections and that the cladding can be
fixed directly to the chords.
 Chord connectors have to be welded to the
ends of the hollow members on site.

11. 3) Triodetic Connector
 It consists of a hub, usually an aluminium
extrusion, that has slots or key ways, which the
ends of members are pressed or coined to
match the slots.

12. 4) Hemispherical Dome Connector
 Usually use for double layer domes.
 Has a span more than 40m.
 More economical for long span.
 The jointing is connect by sliting the end of the
tube or rod with the joint fin.
 There are 2 types of joint, pentagonal joint and
hexagonal joint.

14. ADVANTAGES
 Light
 Elegant & Economical
 Carry load by three dimensional action
 High Inherent Stiffness
 Easy to construct
 Save Construction Time & Cost
 Services (such as lighting and air conditioning)
can be integrated with space frames
 Offer the architect unrestricted freedom in
locating supports and planning the subdivision
of the covered space.

15. EXAMPLES OF BUILDING

16. SAN SIRO STADIUM, MILAN

17. STANSTED AIRPORT,
LONDON

19. THANK
YOU