Development of a new space truss system

Abstract

Although space trusses have seen continuous development during the last few decades, their share in the markets of large-span structures is still quite small. Primarily, because of their relative high cost, space trusses have almost been limited in use to applications where a pleasing appearance is of high priority, and cost is not the determining factor [Codd, 1984, low technology space frames. Third Int. Conf. on Space Structures, Surrey, UK, 955–960]. It is argued that the special nodes required for space truss assembly are most responsible for their high cost. Attempts to create space truss systems that have continuous chord members and do not need node components have been successful in reducing the cost substantially with the chord continuity and eccentricity creating unexpected structural advantages. This paper presents an assessment of the current technology of space truss construction. It also presents a new space truss system that attempts to reduce the cost further without compromising the system's structural reliability. The paper also introduces some added features of the new system that are expected to increase its appeal.