SPACE FRAME

CONSTRUCTION
ADVANCED BUILDING
CONSTRUCTION
SUBMITTED TO :
AR. ANUBHAV MITTAL

SUBMITTED BY :
KOMAL KHATRI
B.ARCH. IV YR. VII SEM.

INTRODUCTION
A space frame is a structure system assembled of linear
elements so arranged that forces are transferred in a
three-dimensional manner.
The space frame can be formed on either a at or a
curved surface.
The earliest form of space frame structure is single-layer
grid.
By adding intermediate grids and including rigid
connection to the joist and girder framing system, the
single-layer grid is formed.
The major characteristic of grid construction is the
omnidirectional spread of the load as opposed to the
linear transfer of the load in an ordinary framing system.

ADVANTAGES
One of the most important advantages of a space
structure is its lightweight. This is mainly due to the fact
that material is distributed spatially in such a way that
the load transfer mechanism is primarily axial tension
or compression
The units of space frames are usually mass produced in
the factory so that they can take full advantage of the
industrialized system of construction.
A space frame is usually sufciently stiff in spite of its
lightness. This is due to its three-dimensional character
and to the full participation of its constituent elements
Space frames possess a versatility of shape and form and
can utilize a standard module to generate various at
space grids, latticed shell, or even free-form shapes.

DISADVANTAGES
Of the disadvantages associated with space grid
construction, perhaps the main one is the cost, which can
sometimes be high when compared with alternative
structural systems such as portal frames. This disparity
in cost is particularly evident when space grids are used
for relatively short spans, although the denition of a
short span is very dependent on the system under
consideration.
Although the regular geometry of space grids is generally
cited as one of their appealing features, to some eyes
they can appear very busy. In real buildings they are
rarely seen in plan or in true elevation (as they generally
appear on the architects drawings) but more typically
they are viewed from quite close up and in perspective.
Another common criticism of space grids is that the
number and complexity of joints can lead to longer

PROPERTIES
Possess great rigidity and stiffness hence resist large
concentrated and unsymmetrical loading.
Ideal for long column-free like Sports facilities, exhibition
centers, passenger terminals, malls, assembly areas, and
production facilities etc
Long cantilevers are made possible, increasing roof area
even with smaller ground area for columns
Redene industry standards of aesthetic requirements
The light and strong space structures are efficient and,
most importantly, beautiful. Space structures provide an
architecturally pleasing appearance.

DESCRIPTION
Structurally : Space structures are load bearing
structures that can be analysed as really 3dimensional,
and cannot be analysed in terms of cooperating 2dimensional elements or planes. The word 'space
structures' or 'spatial structures' is abbreviated from
'spatially stabilized structures' as an indication of their
structural action.
Topologically : Space structures in architecture are the
most space-bound structures in architecture: more
space-bound than earth-bound: roof structures rather
than oors.
Architectonically : Space structures are structures with
a spacious impact, involving all three dimensions around
the spectator. In reality the architectural attractiveness is
the major cause for building space structures.
Literally : Space structures are structures in outer
space, from outer space or connected with aeronautics.
Functionally : Space structures need space to act as a
structure, are rather bulky and contain a large air volume
like air-inated structures.
Philosophically : Space structures tend to suggest a
relationship between our terrestrial structures and
TYPES OF SPACE FRAME
aeronautical structures. There is a suggestion of a
struggle with
the laws of gravity and a relationship with
STRUCTURES
the techniques of production derived from aeronautics
On the basis of structure

MATERIALS
Steel : Steel as the most commonly used material for
space structures, is well accepted in all its properties and
is researched on in great depth. Most of the research
results do not have an inuence on design. Amongst
these are the developments of high grade steel qualities,
of welding
Aluminium:
Aluminium is a less rigid material for
structural purposes, but has advantages over steel in
case of lightweight loadings and corrosion aggressive
atmospheres. Its material properties lead to another set
of space structure systems, where form and geometry
neutralise the lack of material rigidity, especially for the
very design-sensitive glass-covered structures.
Glass : Glass is only allowed in use by the building
codes of most European countries as a nonstructural
material. Only small bending moments are allowed to be
taken, and no additional normal forces from external
loadings like deadweight of other glass panels and
wind/snow loading.
Plastics : Plastics have known a positive and fast
development as a structural material until 1973, when
the oil prices went up dramatically and the prophesied
plastics boom collapsed. As a structural material it was
used in GlassAPPLICATIONS
ber Reinforced Polyester shells, in the
fabric material
Atrium
Coveringof stretched membranes and pneumatic
structures
Canopies
Polycarbonate Sheets
Pre-fabricated structures
Sky light structures

STEEL SPACE FRAMES

Span Range :
Single layered = 20 30 m
Double layered = 50 80 m

Uses

:
Industrial Buildings
Exhibition Halls
Sports pavilions
Gymnasiums etc.

SINGLE LAYERED SPACE

STRUCTURES
Single layer of Triangular network of members.
Curved, Shaped like shells to obtain space geometry.
Derive strength through space geometry (curved
shape).
Joints hinged and members subjected to Axial Forces
(Axial compression/axial tension).
Similar to shell behavior.