Space Frame Structure: Components, Types, and Advantages

🕑 Reading time: 1 minute

A Space Frame, also called a space structure, is a truss-like structure comprising of struts that are interconnected in a geometric pattern that is both strong and lightweight.

It is a modern architectural and structural engineering technique that is being used to effectively cover large areas while using just a small number of internal supports.

Fig 1: Space Frame Structure

Space frame architecture has been more prominent in the last few decades and is now evolving globally. 

These structures are durable because of the triangle's intrinsic stiffness and the bending stresses transferred down the length of each strut as tension and compression.

Components of the Space Frame

Space frame structures are composed of various components, the most common of which is Linear Action Members and Node Connectors/Joints.

Linear fractional members resist tension and compression with circular or rectangular sections. The tube or pipe pieces used in the space frame system are connected using node connectors, making assembly quick and simple.

Fig 2: Components of Space Frame Structure

Node connectors are often used to connect two or more separate joints of the parts. When an axial load is given to a structure,  the force must be transferred via the nodal joints.

The joint must be strong and stiff for the structural loads to be supported by the nodal connection. Space frame structures may be purchased as simple prefabricated modules of uniform size and shape.

Types of Space Frames

Depending on the curvature and how the elements are arranged, there are numerous kinds of space frames described below:

Classification based on Curvature

1. Space Plane Covers

Spatial structures are mostly made up of planar substructures. The planes are channeled through the horizontal bars, while the diagonals are responsible for supporting the shear forces.

Fig 3: Space Plane Covers

2. Barrel Vaults 

The cross-section of barrel vaults resembles a simple arch, with tetrahedral modules or pyramids typically used as a unit component.

Fig 4: Barrel Vaults

3. Spherical Domes

A spherical dome is constructed from an intricate network of steel sections. Typically uses tetrahedral modules or pyramids with skin support.

Fig 5: Spherical Domes

Classification based on the Arrangements of Dome Elements

1. Single Layer Grid 

All elements are approximately positioned on the surface.

Fig 6: Single Layer Grid

2. Double-Layer Grid 

The space frame often utilizes frames of this sort. Elements are arranged in two parallel layers that are spaced at a specific distance away from each other. There are many diagonal bars connecting the nodes of both layers.

Fig 7: Double Layer Grid

3. Triple Layer Grid 

These are arranged in three parallel lines, with the diagonals connecting them. They are often flat and are mainly used in buildings with larger spans.

Fig 8: Triple Layer Grid

Applications of Space Frame Structure

1. Commercial and Industrial Buildings
2. Conference Hall
3. Auditoriums
4. Warehouses
5. Skylights
6. Shopping Malls
7. Canopies
8. Airports
9. Airplane Hangars
10. Toll booths
11. Exhibition Center
12. Sports stadiums

Advantages of Space Frame Structures

1. Because of their extreme sturdiness and lightweight nature, space frame structures provide the most precise load distribution.
2. Space frames benefit from being lightweight, mass-produced, stiff, and versatile compared to other common structures.
3. The space frame structures' prefabricated parts make installation relatively simple.
4. Space frame buildings are highly portable and manageable.
5. These kinds of buildings provide good cambering facilities.
6. Excellent acoustic qualities may be found in space frame constructions.
7. It doesn't require purlins.
8. It is better suited for buildings with irregular plan shapes and sites.
9. Also appropriate for a larger-span construction.
10. It offers an explicit term without a column.
11. By offering a mid-column, this structure eliminates the necessity for geometric stability.
12. It offers a significant spawn at low altitudes.
13. It offers a little amount of deflection.
14. It offers affordable transit prices.

Disadvantages of Space Frame Structures

1. Space frame trusses may be utilized for long spans without interior load-bearing supports, making them ideal for platforms or roofs.
2. Frame connections such as welding, bolting, or threading might create space.

FAQs

What is space frame structure?

A space frame, also called a space structure, is a truss-like structure comprising of struts that are interconnected in a geometric pattern that is both strong and lightweight.

What are the components of space frame structure?

Space frame structures are composed of various components, the most common of which is Linear Action Members and Node Connectors/Joints.
Linear fractional members resist tension and compression with circular or rectangular sections. The tube or pipe pieces used in the space frame system are connected using node connectors, making assembly quick and simple.

What are the advantages of space frame structure?

The advantages of space frame structure are.
1. Because of their extreme sturdiness and lightweight nature, space frame structures provide the most precise load distribution.
2. Space frames benefit from being lightweight, mass-produced, stiff, and versatile compared to other common structures.
3. The space frame structures' prefabricated parts make installation relatively simple.
4. Space frame buildings are highly portable and manageable.
5. These kinds of buildings provide good cambering facilities.
6. Excellent acoustic qualities may be found in space frame constructions.
7. It doesn't require purlins.
8. It is better suited for buildings with irregular plan shapes and sites.
9. Also appropriate for a larger-span construction.
10. It offers an explicit term without a column.
11. By offering a mid-column, this structure eliminates the necessity for geometric stability.
12. It offers a significant spawn at low altitudes.

Read More

8 Types of Structures in Civil Engineering 

What are Retractable Roof Structures?

Recommended Values of Illumination for Different Structures