Space Frames

BCM-VI 2017
Prof .Aparna Shastri
 Definition
• A space frame is a structure system assembled of linear
elements so arranged that forces are transferred in a three-
dimensional manner. In some cases, the constituent element
may be two-dimensional.
• It is also known as latticed structures
• the three-dimensional character includes flat surfaces with
loading perpendicular to the plane as well as curved surfaces.
• In architecture and structural engineering, a space frame or
space structure is a truss-like, lightweight rigid structure
constructed from interlocking struts in a geometric pattern.
Space frames can be used to span large areas with few
interior supports.
• Like the truss, a space frame is strong because of the inherent
rigidity of the triangle; flexing loads (bending moments) are
transmitted as tension and compression loads along the
length of each strut.
• The simplest form of space frame is a horizontal slab of
interlocking square pyramids and tetrahedra built from
aluminium or tubular steel struts.
• Flexibility
• Space frames are double layered grids, excellent in
appearance with large column free spaces. All type of
elegant shape could be made by these systems using variety
of grids. Two-way actions of space frames provide both
economy and enormous spanning capability.
• Larger portable stages and lighting gantries are also
frequently built from space frames and octet trusses.
• Applications
• Space frame is used for commercial and industrial buildings,
auditoriums, airport hangers, sport stadiums, sky lights,
mosques, lighting towers, petrol pumps, canopies, exhibition
halls, atriums, LPG bottling plants, etc.
SALIENT FEATURES
1. Enormous Spanning
Capability.
2. Light Weight
3. High Aesthetics
4. High Resale Value
5. Higher Safety Factor
6. Extension With
Additional Unit
Components Of A Space Frame
Consists of
• axial members - tubes which are circular hollow sections or
rectangular hollow sections.
• connectors – join the members together
Structural Behaviour
• A space frame is a frame structure
• Frames are also made up of beams and columns, the only
difference being they are rigidly connected at the joints
• In space frames the frames members may be oriented in any
direction and there is no restriction on how loads are applied on
it
• The members of the space frame are subjected to only tensile
or compressive stresses.
• Deflections are negligible because of the inherent stiffness
• Crane is an example of space truss
BASIC CONCEPT
The space frame can be formed on
either a flat 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.
Since such load transfer is mainly by
bending, for larger spans the bending
stiffness is increased most efficiently by
changing to a double-layer system.
The load transfer mechanism of a curved
surface space frame is essentially
different from the grid system that is
primarily membrane-like action.
Types of Space Frames
• Skeleton (Braced) Frame Work :
• domes,
• barrel vaults,
• double and multiplier grids,
• braced plates.
• These are more popular. They are innumerable
combinations and variation possible and follow
regular geometric forms.
• Suspended (Cable Or Membrane)structures
• e.g. Cable roofs.
Types of grids
• Single layered:
– Two way, Three way and Four way grids
• Multiple layered Grids
– Two way double layer lattice grids
– Three way double layered lattice grids
Elements of Double layered Grids

Rectangular Square Triangular

Connectors
Types of connections
Supporting columns
Support
ADVANTAGES OF SPACE FRAME SYSTEMS
1. As space frames are structures which work in two direction,
for large spans it provides economical solutions.
2. It is possible to cover spans unto100 m, without column by
using space frame systems.
3. They provide a great flexibility in the selection of support
locations and allows to apply for different geometrical
shapes / areas
4. The design / manufacture / installation process is completed
in a very short interval due to the use of prefabricated
components. Transporting to far of distances is easy due to
the use of prefabricated components.
5. Space frame systems are lighter than traditional steel and
reinforced concrete structures. Therefore, it provides
significant economy in foundation costs.
1. Space frame systems are the
most useful structures for the
earth-quake areas due to their
light unit weight
It is not necessary to cover by
hung ceilings because of its
aesthetic appearance
2. Additional structures to support
the heating, ventilating,
electrical and other systems are
not required for space frame
structures
3. Because of the aesthetic
attribute, space frames are very
suitable for glass or
polycarbonate skylights.
It provides various alternative
solutions in architectural areas for
complex geometrical shapes
(pyramid, triangle, dome, barrel
vault etc.)
 DISADVANTAGES OF SPACE FRAME SYSTEMS
1. The main disadvantages are associated with cost, complexity,
problems of fire protection, and standardised layout.
2. The main criticism of space grids is their cost, which can be high
when compared with alternative structural systems. This is
particularly true when space grids are used for short spans.
3. Visually, space grid structures are very 'busy'. They are rarely seen
in plan or in true elevation and at some viewing angles the
lightweight structure can appear to be very dense. Grid size and
depth as well as the grid configuration can have considerable
influence on the perceived density of the structure
4. The number and complexity of joints can lead to longer erection
times on site. This is obviously very dependent on the system
being used and the grid module chosen.
1. When space grids are used to
support floors some form of
fire protection may be
required. This is difficult to
achieve economically due to
the high number and
relatively large surface area
of the space grid elements.
2. The standardised modular
nature of most space grids
can impose a geometric
discipline of their own. This
sometimes makes difficult the
use of irregular plan shapes
and imposes control on the
location of supports