Tensile Surface Structures

Tensile surface structures are the visual expression of an intensive examination of the topic of building envelopes in architecture. Advances in design methods, materials, construction elements and assembly and erection planning within the field of lightweight building construction are enabling ever more exacting applications of tensile structures with spatial and structural functions, especially in roofing large column-free areas. However, the particular mechanical characteristics of the materials used raise the question of "buildability". This book provides answers by discussing the fundamental influence of manufacture and assembly when deciding on the most suitable type of structure and its detailing in the design process. The fundamentals of material composition, manufacturing process, patterning and the behaviour of flexible structural systems are explained here, as well as their use as structural and connection elements, while special attention is given to the erection of wide-span lightweight structures. The erection equipment is described, as well as the lifting and tensioning process and the construction methods used to erect the characteristic types of tensile structures, illustrated with a selection of example projects.