Structural Fabric

Structural fabric is the material that defines lightweight tensile structures.

Requirements

As a primary structural element, it must have the strength to span between supporting elements, carry snow and wind loads, and be safe to walk on.

As enclosure element, it needs to be airtight, waterproof, fire resistant and durable.

As daily use element, it requires to transmit daylight, reflect heat, control sound, and be easy to keep clean.

Sample Materials

Fiberglass, Polyester Cloth, PVC, Teflon.

    Polyester Tensile Roof

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       Teflon-coated Fibergalss Fabric

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Rigid Structural Elements

Rigid structural elements, such as masts, struts and arches, are to support the flexible fabric and cable membrane, generate its peaks, form its edges, and create the anchors that hold it down.

Requirements

The rigid elements in tensile structures must be strong, light, reliable, readily available, easy to fabricate, transport and erect.

Sample Materials

Steel, Reinforced Concrete, Pre-stress Concrete, Laminated Wood, Aluminum, Composite Synthetic Materials.

   Steel A-Frame

    Laminated Wood Arches

   Concrete Piers

Cables

Cables serve a number of functions in tensile structure applications: reinforcement of the fabric where the spans and stresses get too large; linear tension support elements along ridges, valleys and edges; tie-backs and stays to stabilize rigid support element.

Requirements

The cables need to be light, high-strength and flexible to some extent.

Sample Materials

High Strength Bridge Strand, Steel, Kavlar Fiber, Glass Fiber.

   High-strength Steel Cable

    Main Stay Cable End Fittings

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