Experimental geodesic dome with a sandwich panels structure

Abstract

The popularization of geodesic domes as a living space was one of R. B. Fuller's challenges for modern mankind. The search for a technology that can optimally satisfy this desire in a society living in a temperate climate has become the goal of the structural studies described in this study. The technological solution of the layer of sandwich panels depends on the adopted discrete division of the polyhe-dron surface. Due to the relatively simple shape of the element, the dodecahedron was adopted as the basic body. The designated triangular elements constitute the initial shape of the basic element. Analysis of the edges of connections of triangu-lar panels forms the resulting shape of the spatial solid of the component element. The use of thin GRC concrete slabs in the load-bearing layers allows it to work with metal edges around the perimeter of the panel. The solution of the geometry of the structure nodes is of decisive importance for the technology of assembling the panels into a compact arrangement of the spherical shell. In order to assess the technical value of the created model, an original measurement system was de-signed based on statically operating measurement poles. The system of mechani-cally adjustable measuring poles serves at the same time adjustable load, forced deformation and protects the model in case of loss of stability during strength tests. The research experience obtained on the initial model will be used in further detailed testing of the sandwich panel roofing system described in the paper.

Keywords: Geodesic Dome, Computing Modeling, Panel Structure

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe100896