OTHER STRUCTURES
The DH1 is only one of several
designs I have been exploring recently. Four schematic other
models are shown below. They are a variety of different interpretations
of the same geometry, the orthogonal variations of the Archimedean
solids, see above. These structures are inter-modular, that is
the modules are designed to interconnect with each other.They
are just as valid when it comes to something also described as
"Rapid initial Set-Up structures for long term use"
although more conceptual in nature.
The following two pages show
two more highly developed more recent designs. There are two
orientations, one that is square-octagonal, one that is hexagonal.
There are two basic types of structures, one all panels, one
with added frame parts. The first has been built 1:1, the second
only as a model.
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Shelter System 01
The SS-01, below, has been built
full-size (1:1). It is an all panel system, although when the
panels get big, there are stiffeners. It is a three room group
of 370 square feet.
The geometry of the SS-01 is
based on the 3D checkerboard modified to have alternately expanded
and contracted cubes. This has introduced a 45 degree angled
panel which is the "bevel" of the larger module and
connects between the edges of the smaller, more solidly framed
cube units. This separation of the cubes also separates the cube
edges allowing the use of a patented three-way connection system.
In addition, all other connections in the structure are interlocking
slotted plywood. This includes the joisting of the floor and
roof surfaces, the spiral stair when it occurs, the door hinges,
and the stiffeners on the vertical panel surfaces.
The full size plywood sheet
model made from 55 5' x 10' sheets of 3/4" European Birch
Plywood. The plywood is cut into 276 panels or parts of 28 types.
This amount of material provides 370 square feet in three rooms,
two 9' cubes and a larger 15' wide beveled module. The cubes
have a structural floor while the beveled module is truncated
at 80% and open to the ground or slab surface. As in the DH1,
the plywood sheet structure provided here is intended to be adapted
to the requirements of the particular site or region in which
it is installed. If sprayed foam is the insulating material of
choice, then thickness would be dependent on climate. Exterior
membrane would be chosen for compatible durability relative to
the time of use, perhaps stucco or metal skin for a permanent
installation, and fabric or plastic sheeting for more transitory.
A big advantage here is that the structure is multistory capable
as the enormous capacity of the Birch Plywood will support two
stories without additional members or costs.
Of, course, it goes without
saying that the structure also works in an island climate with
only a canvas or other membrane cover, and when used inside a
larger office or warehouse space it provides an elegant solution
to the executive meeting room and spa.
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Shelter System 02
The model for the SS-02 was
first assembled in March of this year. It represents 1000 sq.
ft. of floor space in two levels. At full scale the floor to
floor height is 9'-0", the modules are hexagonal and 14'-0"
wide. It has a clearspan upper level roof and double skin walls
available for insulation or other filler (concrete for energy
storage, perhaps). Although it is not necessary that it remains
without fasteners other than its slots and notches, this is a
feature that insures rapid initial assembly. For a full size
installation I suggest pre-attaching metal facing on the plywood
sheet wall panels before cutting, then covering the connection
regions and vertical corners etc. with more sheet metal channels,
etc. This is a unusual and very beautiful model and I would very
much like to see it full size.
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and PLAYSTRUCTURES
SEE the Playgoda
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2008 Gregg Fleishman