Tensegrity structural systems
Tensegrity is a structural design principle that applies to a structure which can be stabilised entirely by internal pre-stress. This pre-stress is created by a discontinuous set of compression elements being opposed and balanced by a continuous tensile force.
In essence, a net of continuous tension cables or tendons (the tensioned elements), hold in place, and are themesleves held in place by, a series of discontinous bars or struts (the compressed elements).
The pioneering architect Buckminster Fuller coined the term tensegrity in the 1960s, as a combination of ‘tensional integrity’. However, the American sculptor Kenneth Snelson has long-claimed that Fuller took credit for his original idea of ‘floating compression’. Snelson defines tensegrity as follows:
‘Tensegrity describes a closed structural system composed of a set of three or more elongate compression struts within a network of tension tendons, the combined parts (are) mutually supportive in such a way that the struts do not touch one another, but press outwardly against nodal points in the tension network to form a firm, triangulated, prestressed, tension and compression unit.’ |
This combination of balanced elements produces an exceptionally rigid structure made up of members that do not experience bending moments. Members are loaded only in pure compression or pure tension, and will fail only if cables yield or rods buckle.
A famous example of a tensegrity structure was the Skylon, exhibited at the Festival of Britain in 1951 [see top image]. The tower was held in position by six cables, three of which were at the bottom and determined its location, while the other three were at the top and maintained its verticality.
One of the first uses of tensegrity in architecture was Spodek, an entertainment venue in Poland, designed by architects Maciej Gintowt and Maciej Krasiski in the 1960s. The roof was an inclined surface, the circumference of which was held up by a system of cables.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The 5 elements of seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu and shitsuke.
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.