A Parametric Approach to the Design of Vaulted Tensegrity Networks

Significant new research in tensegrity theory and technology encourages tensegrityis implementation in architecture. A recently developed technology makes possible the rapid modular assembly of deployable tensegrity units, and the construction of alternate curved configurations by re-using the same modules. Although a form exploration method for tensegrity structures already exists, estimating the structureis new geometry remains a challenge due to difficulties designers encounter in understanding and following the methodis geometric construction process. Besides, the method doesnit address the geometry of vaulted configurations. This paper presents algorithms that link together the geometric parameters that determine the shape of tensegrity vaults by addressing different design-construction scenarios, and a software code that generates parametric models of tensegrity vaulted structures.The application of the algorithms to the morphological study of a tensegrity vaulted dome, which constituted the main feature of an entry to arecent international architectural competition, is also presented