On the Flexibility of Deployable Dome Structures and their Application in Architecture

Abstract

In this paper we discuss flexibility and applicability of deployable dome structures in contemporary architecture. A deployable dome is a spatial structure derived from appropriately connected planar polygonal panels. Nowadays, deployable domes are little researched comparing to other deployable structures, such as pseudo-cylinders, for example. When designing these configurations, either changeable supports' spans or strain of some structural elements might occur, depending on the underlying geometrical analysis. Such occurrences, usually being undesirable, can be avoided by the adequate geometrical solution which can also satisfy various sizes of the structures. Therefore, they could answer the purpose both in architectural and urban design. Thus, choosing suitable dimension of the structure, numerous applications can be obtained, starting from street furniture to large scale convertible structures for covering open spaces.