Space Grid Structures

A space frame is a three-dimensional framework for enclosing spaces in which all members are interconnected and act as a single entity. A benefit of this type of structure is that very large spaces can be covered, uninterrupted by support from the ground. John Chilton's book provides an up-to-date assessment of the use of space grid structures in buildings by reviewing methods of construction, various systems available and detailed studies of the use of space grids in modern buildings. The technical level is aimed at professional and student architects and engineers worldwide and it also serves as a useful construction manual. John Chilton is an engineer, currently teaching architectural students at Nottingham University where he is a senior lecturer. He has also undertaken considerable research in this field.

The remarkable rigidity and economy of three-dimensional space structures have long been realized, but only during the last decade have they begun to come into widespread architectural use. In an age of standardization and prefabrication, their simplicity of manufacture, ease of transportation, and speed of erection are sufficient recommendation. Even more important, however, the ratio of weight to area covered can be greatly reduced through their use, and they allow the construction of long-span structures with a far smaller number of intermediate supports.

These Proceedings are based on the Fifth International Conference on Space Structures, organised by the University of Surrey. Produced as a 2-volume set, they contain original and innovative information on space structures from leading engineers and architects from around the world.

Space frames provide a lightweight solution to the problem of creating large span enclosures free from obstructions. They are employed in many major construction projects across the world, as documented in this authoritatively written volume. This is the first in-depth book to present all instances and applications of space frames in various engineering schemes. It uses case studies and numerous illustrations to examine steel space frames from their design to their structural engineering performance. Analysis, Design and Construction of Steel Space Frames will be of particular use to practitioners through its use of various leading design codes, including the Eurocodes. Boasting an international authorship with wide experience in the research, development and manufacture of space frames, this book also draws contributions from leading practitioners and academics specialising in this area from across the globe.

Contains topics that range from glass joints, fixings and adhesives to architectural designs to the strength, stability and safety of glass. This book also covers issues such as laminates and composite designs, glass lighting, the curving and bending of glass and the many facades of glass.

This report contains 27 papers that serve as a testament to the state-of-the-art of civil engineering at the outset of the 21st century, as well as to commemorate the ASCE's Sesquicentennial. Written by the leading practitioners, educators, and researchers of civil engineering, each of these peer-reviewed papers explores a particular aspect of civil engineering knowledge and practice. Each paper explores the development of a particular civil engineering specialty, including milestones and future barriers, constraints, and opportunities. The papers celebrate the history, heritage, and accomplishments of the profession in all facets of practice, including construction facilities, special structures, engineering mechanics, surveying and mapping, irrigation and water quality, forensics, computing, materials, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, and transportation engineering. While each paper is unique, collectively they provide a snapshot of the profession while offering thoughtful predictions of likely developments in the years to come. Together the papers illuminate the mounting complexity facing civil engineering stemming from rapid growth in scientific knowledge, technological development, and human populations, especially in the last 50 years. An overarching theme is the need for systems-level approaches and consideration from undergraduate education through advanced engineering materials, processes, technologies, and design methods and tools. These papers speak to the need for civil engineers of all specialties to recognize and embrace the growing interconnectedness of the global infrastructure, economy, society, and the need to work for more sustainable, life-cycle-oriented solutions. While embracing the past and the present, the papers collected here clearly have an eye on the future needs of ASCE and the civil engineering profession.

The diversity of constructions included in this publication on space structures ranges from anten reflectors and masts positioned in space, to equally exciting terrestrial structures, notably large-span domes, barrel vaults, multi-layered grids, cable and membrane systems, and pneumatic structures. This collection of more than two hundred and twenty papers, presented in to volumes, is the work of leading international experts for presentation at the Fourth International Conference on Space Structures. These two volumes contain a prodigious amount of original and innovative information on space structures that will be of especial interest to engineers, architects and other professionals engaged in the planning, design, fabrication and erection of novel constructions.