UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

ARC 119-DESIGN FUNDAMENTALS

2021/2022 SESSION (1ST SEMESTER)

DESIGN AGENDA: APPLIED ARCHITECTRONICS

PROJECT: TENSEGRITY (ANTI-GRAVITY) STRUCTURES
(APPLICATION OF TENSEGRITY IN ANTI GRAVITY
FURNITURES( TABLES OR STOOLS))

Presented by ADEGOKE SHARON OLUWASEMILORE-

210501039

INTRODUCTION
 Tensegrity is a portmanteau word meaning tensional
integrity. It is a structural principle based on a system of
isolated components under compression inside a network of
continuous tension, and arranged in such a way that the
compressed members (usually bars or struts) do not touch each
other while the prestressed tensioned members (usually cables
or tendons) delineate the system spatially. Tensegrity is also
referred to as floating compression. Tensegrity was coined by
Buckminster Fuller but was first implemented by his student
Kenneth Snelson.

PROJECT ANALYSIS
The main objectives of this project was to:
 Explore the application of tensegrity in the construction of
simple tables and stools
 Explore the relationship between tension and compression
forces
 Explore the structural properties and the resilience of
different materials

The materials used in the completion of the project are:

 Carton
 Strawboard
 Wood
 Cutter
 Strong glue
 Needle
 Scissors
 Cord
 Pencils
 Paper, etc
I will now be elaborating on my various models, the challenges I
faced and how I overcame them:

CARDBOARD MODEL

Before I began working with the materials

specifications(carton, strawboard and wood) I decided to
experiment with some old cardboard I had at home to get a
better understanding of the concept of making a tensegrity
stool and notify the possible errors I might face with much
more difficult materials(carton,strawboard and wood) and
here’s the result

My observations:
The structure was unable to carry much load because of the
poor quality of the tensile material used(thread) and also the
softness of the compression members as well. Another
problem I faced was that the joints of the structure( where two
cuboid members came together) were collapsing under the
tension and compression of the system and this was due to the
quality of glue used and the method of joining the components.

CARTON MODEL

My observations:
The carton model was was definitely an improvement on the
cardboard model as it responded better to load and was able to
carry a lot more load. I ensured this by using a stronger type of
thread(the one used by cobblers in mending shoes), I doubled
the carton to increase the strength and durability of the
components, I used a stronger glue and I used a mortise and
tenon jointing method in joining my components together
because it ensured a much stronger binding of the separate
components.
 STRAWBOARD MODEL

My observations:
the strawboard model was a lot stronger than the two previous
model as it was able to carry a lot more load than the previous
models. This is because strawboard is a much harder material
when compared to carton and cardboard and there was no
need for me to double it in order to make it durable. I also used
a mortise and tenon joining method to ensure a firm bond
between the seperate components.
 WOOD MODEL
```

My observations:
The wood model was the sturdiest and strongest model as it
was able to carry a very large amount of load this is as a result
of the strength of the material used, wood is many times
stronger than the other materials used so its only natural that
that it produces such amazing results. Another factor
contributing to the strenght of the system is that the
components were made with extreme precision as they were
made by a professional carpenter with precision instruments
that ensured the accuracy of the system
Here’s a table showing the differences in my observations of
the various models

CARTON STRAWBOARD WOOD

Light material Hard material Very hard material
Stable More stable Most stable
Low resistance to Medium resistance High resistance to
wind to wind wind
Minimal load Medium load Optimum load
bearing capacity bearing capacity bearing capacity
Durable More durable Most durable

Thank you.