textTensegrity structures are a special type of tensile structures consisting of cables
(in tension) and bars (in compression) that can offer an alternative to conventional space
covering structures. Geometric complexity inherent to these structures has posed a
significant challenge in their geometric and structural design and limited their
applications in buildings. This research is intended to develop a parametric design
methodology for single-curvature tensegrity networks to address problems in their
configuration and analysis. An important feature of the methodology is the
development of an integrative visualization environment to assist in their form
exploration and performance.
The methodology involves a) the development of algorithms to address the
geometry of vaulted configurations that generate models of initial geometry b) integrating
design algorithms to structural analysis and development of models of pre-stressed
geometry, and c) importing the pre-stressed geometry model into a CAD environment.
Specifically, 3D coordinates of a preliminary tensegrity structure are generated by the
design algorithms, automatically processed by an existing analysis code, and visualized
in CAD environment by the graphical interface. Resulting 3D solid models of the
structure can then be used by architects and engineers to validate the design performance
of preliminary configurations under consideration. The morphological variation
considered in this study is that of vaulted configuration composed of tensegrity units of
square-base with bar to cable connection.Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineerin