Tubular building space framework - has spheres at nodal points studded with fittings for receiving ends of tubes

摘要

The spatial structure is made of lightweight prefabricated elements including spars from 8 to 10 metres long which may take purely compression or tension loads. At the nodal points where several spars meet, there are hollow spheres made of two hemispheres with flanges bolted together. A variety of end fittings may be distributed over the surface of the spheres, according to the type of spars used. The spars are hollow, and may be of circular or rectangular section. Conical mating surfaces may be used to engage corresponding surfaces on the ends of the spars. Flanges at the ends of the tubular spars may be formed by turning the walls of the tube outwards.