ABSTRACT
Tensegrity structures are characterized by structural self-equilibrium and super-stability, which, due to their properties are of interest to architects and civil engineers. The main aim of this research is to ascertain new ways of building extremely lightweight, durable, and customizable tensegrity systems. This paper reviews the research on implementing high-strength composite materials in the prototype design of tensegrity structure. Deployed prototype is based on the concept of three-way tensegrity grid. Materials used for the prototype design elements are; aramid fibers – cables, carbon fiber rods – struts, PC-ABS – nodes. These materials are very promising candidates for the building material for such structures, due to their high mechanical strength, light weight, corrosion and oxidation resistance. Simulations show the possibility of application in novel engineering objects. These objects might eventually be deployed for a wide spectrum of situations, from modular housing systems, post-disaster shelters, objects located in harsh climatic conditions, to perhaps extraterrestrial habitats.
