ABSTRACT

Structures that work under both tension and compression as a response to loading are generally very effective structures and their strength depends on their formal arrangement. These are trussed structures that are various compositions of triangles. There are three types of trussed systems, including 2D trusses, 3D trusses, and Space frames. Two-dimensional trusses can be studied by looking at: analysis of internal forces in trusses; span and depth of trusses; use and organisation of trusses in buildings. To increase the effectiveness of trusses, they can be built as three-dimensional elements. This chapter presents two case studies namely, Cluj Arena and Waterloo Terminal that followed structural guidelines and achieved strong tectonic affects. It describes structures that are composed of many small struts connected to each other to make a triangular geometric pattern. Space frames can be used in different arrangements and formations of different surface geometries.