GEODESIC

STRUCTURE
Group 5 Members:
AGATON, Alyssa Ashley
CARAAN, Jonnason Keith
GONZALES, Sam Harold
MADLANGBAYAN, Marion Anne
LOSAÑEZ, Jerlyn Amor M.
Introduction
Geodesic - A geodesic structure, in general, is a spherical structure made
of connected lines as opposed to curved surfaces.

GEODESIC PLAY DOME SOCCER BALL

Introduction
Geodesic structures have captivated human imagination for decades with their elegant
and efficient design. Derived from the Greek word “geo” meaning Earth, and “dome,”
these structures have found applications in various fields, including architecture,
mathematics, and engineering.

Geodesic domes are spherical or partially-spherical structures made up of

interconnected triangular elements. The unique design offers exceptional strength,
stability, and efficient use of materials. Notable examples include the Biosphere in
Montreal, Canada, and the Eden Project in Cornwall, England.
Introduction
The 250-foot diameter dome for the 1967

World’s Fair in Montreal, Canada.

“The Biosphere”

Material: Paper (Fiber product)

Technique: Gelatine Silver Process

History

● Geodesic domes were first unveiled right after

World War I by Walter Bauersfeld, a German
engineer.
● Originally invented in Germany in 1922
● The first dome was used as a planetarium.
● The Zeiss Planetarium in Jena, Germany
History

● Geodesic domes are often identified with the

counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s
● It only became popularized after inventor, architect,
engineer, and mathematician Buckminster Fuller,
lectured world-wide on the potential use and
efficiency of the structure.
History
● Buckminster may not be the inventor but he is the one to
systematize and improve the mathematics for building
geodesic domes.
● He coined the term “geodesic” from field experiments at
Black Mountain College, in North Carolina.
● While Fuller is not the original inventor, he is credited
with the popularization of geodesic domes in the U.S.
where he received a patent in 1954.
History
● In 1954, Buckminster Fuller patented the geodesic dome
design and popularized it through various projects,
publications, and exhibitions.
● During the 1960s and 1970s, an era in which
unconventionality was prized, geometric domes became
popular as an inexpensive way for environmentally
conscious people to build their own homes.
History
● Later in 1954, he introduced geodesic domes as homes
with his first patent for a geodesic dome.
Types of Geodesic Domes
Geodesic domes comes in a variety of designs

● Geodesic domes with a full sphere

Types of Geodesic Domes
● Semi-sphere geodesic domes
Types of Geodesic Domes
● Ellipsoid geodesic domes
Material Used in Geodetic structure Construction
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Architectural Consideration
Building a geodesic dome involves several architectural considerations to
ensure its stability, strength, and functionality. Geodesic domes are known for
their unique structural design, which is both efficient and aesthetically
pleasing. Here are some key architectural conditions to consider when
building a geodesic dome:
Geometry and Design:
Dome Frequency: The frequency of a geodesic dome refers to the number of
divisions or triangles used to create the structure. Common frequencies
include 1/2, 1/3, and 2/5.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations

Architectural Consideration

Triangle Size: The size and dimensions of the triangular panels that make up
the dome should be carefully calculated to ensure the desired shape and
structural integrity.
Strut Lengths: The lengths of the struts (structural members) that connect the
vertices of the triangles should be calculated accurately to achieve the desired
dome size and shape.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Architectural and Engineering Considerations

Materials:
Frame Material: Geodesic domes can be constructed from various materials,
including wood, steel, aluminum, or PVC. The choice of material depends on
factors like budget, intended use, and environmental conditions.
Covering Material: The dome's covering, such as glass, polycarbonate panels,
or fabric, should be selected based on factors like insulation requirements,
climate, and intended use (e.g., greenhouse, home, or event space).
Architectural and Engineering Considerations

Foundation:
Adequate Support: The dome's foundation must provide stable support for the
structure. Depending on the size and purpose of the dome, options include
concrete footings, piers, or a continuous perimeter foundation.
Structural Analysis:
Load-Bearing Capacity: The dome's structural design should account for snow
loads, wind loads, and other environmental factors that can affect its stability.
Engineering calculations are essential to ensure the dome can withstand these
forces.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Assembly:
Precision: Precise measurements and alignment are crucial during the assembly
process to ensure that the dome's triangles and struts fit together accurately.
Bracing: Depending on the dome's size and intended use, additional bracing may
be necessary to strengthen the structure.
Ventilation and Climate Control:
Ventilation: Consider the ventilation needs of the space enclosed by the dome.
Geodesic domes can get hot in the sun, so adding vents or windows may be
necessary to regulate temperature and airflow.
Climate Control: If the dome will be used year-round, consider climate control
systems like heating and cooling.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Permits and Regulations:
Building Codes: Ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations.
Geodesic domes may have unique considerations in some jurisdictions.
Accessibility:
Access and Egress: Plan for appropriate access and egress points, especially in
larger domes used for public purposes.
Maintenance:
Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspect the dome for wear and tear,
especially in harsh environmental conditions. Proper maintenance is essential
for the long-term durability of the structure.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations

Lighting and Utilities:

Plan for the installation of lighting, electrical systems, plumbing, and other
utilities as needed for the dome's intended use.
Building a geodesic dome requires careful planning and attention to detail to
ensure that it meets both structural and functional requirements. Consulting
with architects, engineers, and builders experienced in dome construction is
advisable to achieve a successful project.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Engineering Considerations
When it comes to engineering a geodesic dome, there are several critical
considerations to ensure its structural integrity, stability, and safety. Geodesic
domes are renowned for their strength and efficiency, but they require careful
engineering to achieve these qualities. Here are some key engineering
considerations for building a geodesic dome:
Structural Analysis:
Load-Bearing Capacity: Calculate and analyze the dome's ability to withstand
various loads, including snow loads, wind loads, live loads (e.g., people and
equipment), and seismic forces if applicable. Engineering software can assist
in these calculations.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Geometry and Design:
Node Connectors: The nodes where struts intersect should be designed and
manufactured to withstand the forces they will experience. Welded steel nodes
or specialized connectors are often used.
Strut Material and Cross-Section: Choose the appropriate material and
cross-sectional dimensions for the struts based on structural analysis.
Common materials include steel or aluminum, and struts can be round or
tubular in cross-section.
Joining Methods: Determine the best method for joining struts at the nodes,
such as welding, bolting, or using specialized connectors. The joints must be
strong and reliable.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Foundation:
Foundation Design: The dome's foundation must be designed to distribute the
loads from the dome's struts evenly to the ground. Soil testing and
geotechnical analysis may be required to design an appropriate foundation.
Anchor Points: Securely anchor the dome to the foundation to prevent uplift
and lateral movement.
Materials:
Material Properties: Consider the material properties of both the frame and
the covering material, including their tensile strength, compressive strength,
and resistance to environmental factors.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Sealing and Waterproofing:
Proper sealing and waterproofing of seams and joints in the covering material
are crucial to prevent leaks and ensure the interior remains dry.
Ventilation and HVAC:
Plan for adequate ventilation and, if needed, heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning (HVAC) systems to maintain comfortable conditions inside the
dome.
Safety:
Consider safety features such as fire protection systems, emergency exits, and
lighting for both regular use and emergency situations.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Environmental Conditions:
Account for the local climate and environmental conditions when designing
the dome. For example, snow loads, wind speeds, and temperature extremes
should be considered.
Assembly and Construction:
Ensure that the assembly process is carried out according to the approved
engineering plans and specifications. Precision and accuracy in assembly are
crucial.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations
Environmental Conditions:
Inspection and Maintenance:
Develop a regular inspection and maintenance schedule to identify and
address any structural issues or wear and tear.
Building Codes and Permits:
Comply with local building codes and regulations, which may have specific
requirements for dome structures.
Architectural and Engineering Considerations

Retrofitting and Modifications:

If retrofitting or modifying an existing dome structure, consult with structural
engineers to ensure that the changes do not compromise its integrity.
Engaging experienced structural engineers and architects who are familiar
with geodesic dome construction is essential to successfully engineer and
build a geodesic dome that meets safety standards and functional
requirements.
Advantages and Disadvantages

Some of the advantages of a geodesic dome are:

● Strength and Durability

● Highly Energy Efficient
● Wide Range of Applications
● Sustainability
● Unique Design
● Adaptability
Disadvantages of Geodesic Dome
Some of the disadvantages of geodesic domes are:

● Expensive
● Difficult to Install
● Limited Interior Space
● Maintenance
● Climate
Example of Geodesic Dome (Local)
1.. Domes Village
It is a group of four dome-shaped
buildings, each with its unique
theme, connected by suspended
bridges and situated in New Clark
City, Philippines' River Park.

The domes are created using

parametric modeling, expert
carpentry, and recycled hardwood
from historic houses.
Custom-made,
computer-machined steel
connections are also incorporated.
The Walkup Skydome
International Geodesic Dome
For its first six years, the
Walkup Skydome was the world's
largest clear-span timber dome,
until the completion of the
Tacoma Dome in Tacoma,
Washington, in 1983. The architect
was Wendell Rossman of Phoenix,
also responsible for many other
buildings on the surrounding
NAU campus. Mardian
Construction Company also of
Phoenix was general contractor.

Example of Geodesic Dome (Local)
Geodesic Dome
Superproject's tribute to American
architect Buckminster Fuller, who
popularized the use of lattice shell
structures in architecture, is the
geodesic dome. It began as a
6.4-meter-tall icosahedron
projected onto a 10.3-meter-sphere,
which was then bent on one side to
create a gap for the third bridge.
Consequently, the structure aligns
itself with the forces generated by
the bridge, without the need for
extra components. The timber
components come in different sizes
and track the stresses of the bridge
as they descend to the earth.
Round Valley Ensphere
International Geodesic Dome

The Ensphere encloses 8,000,000

cubic feet (230,000 m3) of space
and was the first fully day-lighted
dome of its kind, allowing light
and heat to enter.