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Abstract

A tensegrity structure is a type of self-balancing tensile structure, which consists of tension cables surrounding compression struts. Based on the geometry and topology of the classic half-octahedron tensegrity, this article presents a form-finding analysis of semi-regular tensegrity units using singular value decomposition of the equilibrium matrix. We propose the design formulas for the unit geometric transformation, obtain its internal self-stress modes and inextensional mechanism modes, and verify its geometric stability. Then, we devise a design method and compute the overall feasible self-stress of a tensegrity torus. A novel cable–strut tensile structural system is generated through combining a tensegrity torus and a Levy-type cable dome. Finally, a physical model is constructed to verify the feasibility of this structural system. This work enriches existing forms of tensegrity structures and contributes to further practical applications of tensegrity systems.

Keywords

cable dome form finding half-octahedron tensegrity semi-regular tensegrity tensegrity torus

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