Geodesic Dome Research Articles

Constructions of innovative geodesic domes in terms of the sustainable and efficient cross-sections using

Geodesic domes are structures which deliver effective solutions, associated with cost savings, due to the lack of intermediate supports when roofing large-sized objects. The multitude of advantages of this type of construction was translated into the shaping of innovative lightweight objects of geodesic domes, constructed on a regular octahedron. In this article, the use of strut sections was applied to covers generated due to a regular octahedron. Two families of domes were compared, resulting from the use of two methods that differ from each other in their topology. Each family consist of 8 structures thus finally 16 geodesic domes were considered. The generated domes were compared in terms of the same section for all strut elements, and the optimized section for each group of struts. To find the design focused on obtaining optimal solution, a number of comparative analysis were carried out. The presented analysis is extremely important in the context of environmental impact, because it shows the steel consumption and the sense of optimization. It was indicated that by optimizing the cross-sections of the strut elements, the steel consumption, as well as their weight, decreased by approx. 10–25% for dome structures which were created using method 1 and 20–40% for domes generated using method 2. The article aims to provide suggestion on the selection of the appropriate innovative geodesic dome mesh. A mesh based on various methods of shaping the covers of geodesic domes created using a regular octahedron.

Transfer-AE: A novel autoencoder-based impact detection model for structural digital twin

Accurately detecting the location and intensity of impacts is crucial for ensuring structural safety. Currently, AI-based structural impact detection methods are widely used for their excellent detection accuracy. However, their generalization capability is limited by the scenarios present in the training data. Many complex and dangerous impact scenarios are difficult to conduct real-world experiments on to collect sufficient samples. To capture all impact scenarios and fully leverage the advantages of AI-based detection technologies, advanced methods involve combining real-world structural monitoring data with corresponding numerical models to construct digital twins. These methods continuously refine the created numerical models with limited real-world data and provide diverse impact scenarios through numerical model simulations. However, there are inevitable differences between digital models and physical models that are challenging to correct through mechanical means. This discrepancy in data distribution between the two models significantly hinders the application of digital twin technology in impact/event identification tasks. To address this challenge, this study proposes a novel model based on autoencoders, named Transfer-AE. Transfer-AE encodes the common features of digital twins in the latent space to bridge the uncertainty gap at a macro scale between numerical models and physical models and synchronously fits the magnitude and location of the impact load in the decoder. This enables consistent detection results for the same impact event, whether the sample comes from the numerical model or the physical model. Transfer-AE includes two operating modes: Mode 1 has a fixed computational complexity with stable inference speed, but the training cost and difficulty increase with data distribution. Mode 2's computational complexity increases with data distribution, but it has a fixed training cost and speed. In both cases involving the geodesic dome structure simulating a deep space habitat and the IASC-ASCE benchmark structure, Transfer-AE demonstrated the best performance in impact localization and quantification tasks compared to mainstream domain-adaptive transfer models.

Closed Geodesics on the Mylar Balloon Shape

In 2006, Alexander proved a result that implied for the mylar balloon shape, if n is the number of times a closed geodesic winds around the axis of rotation and m is the number of times the geodesic oscillates about the equator, then n / m ∈ ( 1 / 2 , 1 ] . In this paper, we will provide a simpler more direct proof of Alexander’s result for the mylar balloon by using sharp estimates of certain improper integrals. The mylar balloon geodesics suggest a network of reinforcing fibers creating an isotensoid system that is lightweight, compactly foldable, and easy to deploy, making it an ideal candidate for an inflatable terrestrial or space habitat. Other applications of geodesics, including geodesic domes, aerodynamic decelerators, and the production of salami are also discussed.

A biogenic geodesic dome of the silica skeleton in Phaeodaria

Unique architectures of microbial skeletons are viewed as a model for the architectural design of artificial structural materials. In particular, the specific geometric arrangement of a spherical skeleton 0.5–1.5 mm in diameter of shell-bearing protists, Phaeodaria (Aulosphaera sp.), is remarkably interesting because of its similarity to a geodesic polyhedron, which is a hollow framework with 6-branched nodes that requires minimal building material for maximal strength. A phaeodarian skeleton composed of silica rods 5–10 µm in diameter was characterized as a distorted dome that is based on an icosahedron sectioned with a 7-frequency subdivision. The major difference of the biogenic architecture from the ideal geodesic dome is the coexistence of 7- and 5-branched nodes with the distortion of the frames and the presence of radial spines. From a microscopic perspective, the frames and radial spines were revealed to be hollow tubes having inner fibers and lamellar walls consisting of silica nanoparticles 4–8 nm in diameter with interlayer organic matter. The high degradability of the silica skeleton in seawater after cell mortality is ascribed to the specific nanometric composite structure. The biological architectonics sheds light on the production of environmentally friendly, lightweight structural materials and microdevices.

The optimal design of composite overwrapped pressure vessels based on geodesic dome trajectories using population-based techniques

Pressure vessels are frequently fabricated using composite materials which stand out with their high strength-to-weight ratio, and provide considerable advantages compared to conventional steel ones. In our previous study, the impacts of Polar Opening Radius (POR) on the mechanical characteristics of Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels COPVs were numerically examined, and it was determined that effective volume and structural weight responses improved with higher POR, but significant deterioration took place in first-ply interlaminar shear stress (ILSS) responses after 20 mm POR. Therefore, to achieve the best possible mechanical and structural behaviors, the present study aimed to discover an optimum POR that provides maximum internal volume as well as minimum weight and ILSS responses. In this regard, the optimum geodesic dome trajectory based on the 10–30 mm POR range was determined using the Bees Algorithm (BA) and the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). According to the findings, the optimum POR was found as 17.9643 and 17.9671 mm due to the BA and PSO algorithms, respectively. Moreover, first-ply ILSS, structural weight and effective internal volume for the optimal COPVs design were achieved as 52.444 MPa, 1070.81 g, and 2721.94 cm3 from the BA, and thus COPVs with maximum strength and minimum structural weight has been designed. In this way, thanks to the optimization studies, an approximately 18.31% improvement in ILSS responses was achieved despite the negligible deterioration in weight and volume compared to the COPVs with a 30 mm POR.

Modal and random vibration responses of composite overwrapped pressure vessels with various geodesic dome trajectories

In the current study, Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs) with various geodesic dome profiles have been built and their modal and random vibration responses were numerically examined. In this regard, geodesic dome profiles were established for five different polar opening radii of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 mm, and thus the impacts of fibre orientations on vibration characteristics depending on the filament winding trajectories were discovered. Furthermore, non-prestressed modal and random vibration responses for COPVs, as well as prestressed vibration behaviours under 50, 100, and 150 Bar internal pressure, were investigated and thus the effects of internal pressure severity on dynamic characteristics were identified. The study found that higher polar opening radius triggered a reduction in the natural frequencies, and these reductions were linked to an increment in the filament winding angle, and a consequent deterioration in the structural stiffness of COPVs. On the other hand, raising the internal pressure severity shifts the natural frequencies to higher frequencies, which are also attributed to ascended structural stiffness. Furthermore, it was established that internal pressure severity and polar opening radius had a coupled effects on the modal and random responses, and that both parameters should be evaluated simultaneously.

Class I and Class II Subdivision of the 20-meter Geodesic Dome Behavior and Analysis using Breakdown Methods 1 and 2 for Various Dome Frequencies

Class I and Class II Subdivision of the 20-meter Geodesic Dome Behavior and Analysis using Breakdown Methods 1 and 2 for Various Dome Frequencies

Energy Benefits of Tourist Accommodation Using Geodesic Domes

Over the last decade there has been a proliferation of glamping architecture. This study analyses the energy performance of geodesic domes for use in tourist glamping compared to more conventional prismatic architectural solutions. The energy analysis of geodesic domes applied to this type of singular construction project currently lacks detailed studies that provide conclusions about their relevance and suitability with respect to other types of architecture. The main objective of this research is to demonstrate the energy benefits of tourist accommodations that use geodesic structures compared to those with a simple geometry. A comparative study of a traditional and a geodesic geometry accommodation is carried out, considering that they share the same characteristics and they are built with the same construction solution. An energy simulation of both architectures is carried out by using DesignBuilder software. The most influential strategies, such as Direct Passive Solar Gain, Heating, Natural Ventilation Cooling, Fan-Forced Ventilation Cooling and Window Solar Shading are considered. After demonstrating the greater efficiency of geodesic domes, this study analyses the relevance of subdividing the accommodations into several geodesic dome spaces. The results quantify an energy benefit of 52% for cooling consumption using the geodesic dome solution compared to a traditional prismatic solution.

МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ НАПРУЖЕНО-ДЕФОРМОВАНОГО СТАНУ МЕТАЛЕВОГО СТРИЖНЕВОГО КАРКАСУ ГЕОДЕЗИЧНОГО КУПОЛУ ДЛЯ РАЦІОНАЛЬНОГО ПРОЕКТУВАННЯ

The paper contains the further developed of method for calculating thin-walled shells with supporting frame in the form of geodesic domes without a stationary foundation. Have been performed the detailed analysis of the fundamental design solutions of frame demountable domes with tent double-layer cover, the inner layer of which serves as a projection screen of three-dimensional cinemas, which are gaining popularity in the amusement industry. Have been developed highly detailed finite element models of dome with a base diameter of 13.5 m, taking into account technological holes and structural elements of rigidity under the influence of wind, snow, ice and other climatic influences. Have been modeled at the same time, various options for connecting the dome frame to the base. Have been proven that the worst influence on the dome structures is the wind influence, based on the stability criterion. Have been proven at also that the frame-rod tented construction of the geodome cannot function safely without reliable connection to the base. Have been identified, areas of the core elements of the frame with the highest internal stresses from various loads for all possible options for connecting the frame to the base. Have been considered the general nature of deformation and possible destruction of the structure, as well as the issue of loss of stability. Have been founded that the most stressed structures include the tent cover and bolted fasteners of the joints of the rod system. Have been proposed a rational method for anchoring frame dome structures at temporary earthen construction sites using geo-screws or metal screw piles. Have been proven the possibility of anchoring the supporting elements of the dome in five polar symmetrical points using ballast. Have been formulated the constructive recommendations regarding the rational design of frame dome systems. Have been developed the technological regulations for the further safe operation of frame geo-domes, and have been outlined the directions for further scientific research on this topic.

Analysis of Lightweight Structure Mesh Topology of Geodesic Domes

This paper presents two methods of shaping the mesh topology of lightweight structures as spherical domes. The two given methods of dividing the initial face of the polyhedra determine the obtained structures, which differ in the way of connecting the nodal points. These points were obtained by applying the algorithm for calculating spherical coordinates presented in the paper, which were then converted to the Cartesian system using transformation formulas. Two models of dome structures are presented, based on a 4608-hedron according to the first division method, and on a 4704-hedron, using the second proposed method with numerical analysis. Thus, the novelty of this paper is an implementation of the formulas and algorithms from geodesic domes based on the regular dodecahedron to the regular octahedron, which has not been presented so far. The choice of the shape of the structure has impacts on sustainable development, dictated by structural and visual considerations, leading to the design of a light structure with low consumption of construction material (steel), which can undoubtedly be helpful when making the final structure shape. In addition, according to this research, it can be concluded that using the first method to create a geodesic dome mesh is more straightforward, safer, and requires less design experience.

Доступная Арктика

The article considers the project of development of the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation and the Arctic Ocean coast, the creation of servicing and supporting infrastructure of the Northern Sea Route. The authors present data from a pre-project study of the territory and show the need for its logistical enrichment in order to increase the efficiency of mineral extraction and multiply the volume of transported cargo. To realise these ideas, the authors propose new types of Arctic bases and settlements based on the geometry of geodesic domes, which have a number of technical advantages and aesthetic expression. The authors propose to base the settlement concept on the principles of modularity, interchangeability of individual modules and their component parts, maximum weight reduction and simplified transport. We propose to install wind energy-ecological and a number of other engineering systems to increase the autonomy of Arctic settlements.

A Novel Isobaric (Gas-Less) Laparoscopic Surgery Device.

Laparoscopic Surgery is performed using carbon dioxide gas insufflated into the abdominal cavity to create a space for endoscopic visualization. During a laparoscopic surgical dissection plume is formed from electrocautery dissection. This plume contains viruses and sometimes COVID-19 viruses. The plume obscures the visual field. The unfiltered plume release is dangerous to surgeons, nurses, and patients. The loss of visualization during carbon dioxide release delays surgery. The use of carbon dioxide insufflated gas can have side effects such as C02 embolus, pain from diaphragmatic stretching, physiological complications such as respiratory infections and renal problems. The release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, unfiltered is significant. This accounts for 7% of greenhouse gases globally. This percentage is rising due to expansion of minimally invasive surgery. The proposed system for gasless surgery was designed by algorithms of tensegrity and geodesic dome pressures. 100 simulator studies were performed to develop the device to elevate the abdominal wall to create a gas free (isobaric) space for Laparoscopic Surgery. After design freeze, 4 animal studies were performed using ethical research guidelines at Amsterdam Medical Centre Research Department, Netherlands. 3 cadaveric studies were performed using Ethical guidelines at Hackensack University Medical Centre, New Jersey, USA, to evaluate the device in a human setting. These devices for Laparoscopic Surgery, Robotic Surgery, and Hand Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery (HALS) successfully proved that a superior intra-abdominal space can be created without carbon dioxide insufflation. The devices are patented in USA and Europe.

Virtual Domes. Utopian architecture at the dawn of Virtual Reality

This paper examines the theoretical and practical aspects of geodesic dome architecture in North America as part of an aesthetic of virtualization. Geodesic domes can be conceived of as virtual environments designed as alternatives to the contemporary world and its internal crises. They were originally a tool of the American counterculture of the 1960s to search for futuristic housing solutions which responded to ecological concerns. The contribution traces some of the most important phases of dome architecture, which crossed paths with the emerging technoculture linked to the rise of virtual reality. Indeed, the idea of the dome as a means of imagining new virtual environments, as was the case of Biosphere 2, intersects with the career of VR pioneer Jaron Lanier. Today, virtual reality technologies have merged geodesic architecture with visualization devices, as happens in the case of “virtual domes”, offering a unique way to experience virtual reality and connect with others in a shared environment.

Emilio Pérez Piñero: invention through abstraction

Emilio Pérez Piñero represents the paradigm of the architect inventor of the twentieth century. His extraordinary mind developed through a series of special circumstances in the early stages of his life, and further, through his own disciplined dedication, he was able to produce a wealth of work of a richness and complexity that go beyond innovation and problem solving. Invention in Pérez Piñero’s work was the result of a masterly mathematical command and a highly developed three-dimensional vision, which enabled him to see possible solutions that had been considered impossible before him. His geodesic domes are true structural landmarks and his folding reticulated structures, in which dynamic folding mechanisms are designed so as to reach equilibrium when fully stretched at the point at which they become static structures, are the culmination of a body of work that has no comparison in the panorama of the architecture of the time.

Implementation of Domes Building in Simoketawang Village Tourism Education Facilities, Sidoarjo City

The application of dome buildings in tourist education facilities in Simoketawang Village, Sidoarjo aims to increase educational value and attract tourists to visit the village. In this discussion, we explore the benefits and potential of applying dome structures in the context of educational tourism in Simoketawang Village. Through literature recognition, we found that the application of dome structures, such as geodesic domes, ellipsoid domes, and tropical domes, can provide architectural uniqueness and interesting experiences for visitors. Geodesic domes, with triangular segment structures, provide robustness and efficiency in construction, while ellipsoids of domes give a dynamic and aesthetic impression of modernity. The tropical dome, with its hollow and open design, prioritizes air circulation and natural lighting. In addition, the discussion also involved aspects of sustainability and community participation in the development of village tourism. The application of domes in tourist education facilities can support sustainable design principles, such as the use of natural materials and optimization of natural resources. In addition, the participation of local communities is also important in the preservation of cultural heritage and the development of ecotourism in Simoketawang Village.By combining unique architectural designs, educational values, and launches, the application of domes buildings in Simoketawang Village can provide a unique and interesting tourist experience for visitors, while supporting the development of ecotourism and the preservation of local culture.

Designing a Geodesic Faceted Acoustical Volumetric Array Using a Novel Analytical Method

We present a novel analytical method as an efficient approach to design a geodesic-faceted array (GFA) for achieving a beam performance equivalent to that of a typical spherical array (SA). GFA is a triangle-based quasi-spherical configuration, which is conventionally created using the icosahedron method imitated from the geodesic dome roof construction process. In this conventional approach, the geodesic triangles have nonuniform geometries due to some distortions that occur during the random icosahedron division process. In this study, we took a paradigm shift from this approach and adopt a new technique to design a GFA that is based on uniform triangles. The characteristic equations that relate the geodesic triangle with a spherical platform were first developed as functions of the operating frequency and geometric parameters of the array. Then, the directional factor was derived to calculate the beam pattern associated with the array. A sample design of GFA for a given underwater sonar imaging system was synthesized through an optimization process. The GFA design was compared with that of a typical SA, and a reduction of 16.5% in the number of array elements was recorded in the GFA at a nearly equivalent performance. Both arrays were modeled, simulated, and analyzed using the finite element method (FEM) to validate the theoretical designs. Comparison of the results showed a high degree of compliance between the FEM and the theoretical method for both arrays. The proposed novel approach is faster and requires fewer computer resources than the FEM. Moreover, this approach is more flexible than the traditional icosahedron method in adjusting geometrical parameters in response to desired performance outputs.

Comparison of mechanical properties of the Type 1 and Type 2 composite hydraulic cylinder designs: A numerical study

AbstractHydraulic cylinders can reach enormous sizes depending on the working pressure and application areas. These structures, which are typically fabricated using traditional steels, can be quite heavy, which can cause a number of issues, particularly low system efficiency and fuel performance. A Type 1 composite hydraulic cylinder (CHC) with geodesic dome trajectories was created in our earlier work, and the effects of composite material utilization on the structural weight and mechanical responses were examined. Furthermore, the applicability of the geodesic dome to the CHCs was examined, and the benefits and drawbacks of using the dome profile were found. A Type 2 CHC was created in the current study, and the structural performances of Type 1 and Type 2 CHCs were compared. In this regard, numerical analyses were done to assess the mechanical responses and structural performance of a Type 2 CHC. Additionally, utilizing response surface methodology (RSM), the design parameters were optimized. The outputs of the current study were then verified by comparing the outcomes of statistical‐based RSM and FEM examinations. As a result, the structural weights for both designs were compared with steel hydraulic cylinders of the same strength, and it was revealed that Type 1 and Type 2 CHCs were 53.78% and 38.42% lighter than steel ones, respectively. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of the design types were discussed, and thus the optimum design was determined by considering the application areas and requirements.

The Influence of Dome Geometry on the Results of Modal and Buckling Analysis

The main purpose of this paper is to compare the results of modal analysis for two types of domes. The first one is a low-rise Schwedler dome. The second one is a high-rise geodesic dome. The low-rise Schwedler dome is subjected to large displacement gradients and should be designed according to geometrical nonlinear analysis. In the case of high-rise geodesic dome, linear analysis is sufficient. In the modal analysis, the mass of the bars of the supporting structures was modeled as evenly distributed, while the mass of the covering and roof equipment was concentrated in the nodes. Classic calculations have been enriched with modal analysis taking into account normal forces. Normal forces affect the vibration frequency of the structure. Commonly used modal analysis does not take into account the influence of normal forces. In order to approximate the actual working conditions of the structure, calculations performed in Autodesk Robot Structure Professional 2022 can be performed in accordance with the modal analysis, taking into account the applied normal forces in the modal analysis. Additionally, stability loss was verified using linear or geometrical nonlinear buckling analysis. The exigence of including normal forces in modal analysis for low-rise domes is the novelty and main message of the work.

Sustainable Shaping of Lightweight Structures Created According to Different Methods

This paper presents the problem of the efficient shaping of spherical structures of geodesic domes, which is the basis for creating a regular octahedron, in the aspect of sustainable development. The proposed two methods of shaping covered by this study differ in the way the dividing points of the initial edges of the regular octahedron are connected, and, therefore, in the way the sphere is shaped. Using different methods, two families of domes with different lengths of struts but with a similar number of them were obtained. The conducted comparative analysis leads to the indication of this method of shaping the topology, thanks to which it is possible to obtain structures with less consumption of construction material, and, consequently, with less weight. Both the geometry and weight indicate the advantages of geodesic domes created using the first subdivision method. The selection of the appropriate method of shaping geodesic domes is a consequence of a sustainable design strategy. The presented structures in the form of geodesic domes, the basis of which is a regular octahedron, can be original, innovative coverings, while the detailed analysis carried out is intended to provide design guidelines that will facilitate both architects and designers.

Climatic Media: Transpacific Experiments in Atmospheric Control

Climatic Media: Transpacific Experiments in Atmospheric Control