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This thesis investigates how to reduce the raw materials invested in aÌýbuilding, specifically in the structural aspect of its construction, and in soÌýdoing decrease the embodied energy required to build a structure. GeometricÌýstructures that utilize tensile forces allow for theÌýmost efficient,Ìýlightweight and economical improvements in building design. This constructionÌýmethod will allow structures to be built in a way that incorporates rapid setÌýup, decreased material transportation costs, and the substitution of localÌýmaterials.ÌýÌýInnovative trussÌýtechnologiesÌýthat have the potential to be applied to multiple scales and types of buildingÌýstructures will facilitate the optimization of enclosed spaces.

ArchitectureÌýtypology today is still largely articulated on modernist practices developedÌýnearly a century ago. This research proposes an alternative to the present andÌýfuture of building technology. The focus is on creating small triangulatedÌýunits that can be linked together in orderÌýto create a grid that makes a stableÌýand supported structure.ÌýÌýUnlike spaceÌýframe construction, this approach reduces the size and volume of materialsÌýrequired by optimizing the use of tension components. Lightweight but strongÌýtensile cable, in combination with small compressionÌýstruts composed of wood orÌýanother renewable material, create a building unit that is extremely strong andÌýutilizes resources to their maximum potential.

PreliminaryÌýinvestigations into tensile structuresÌýrevealedÌýthat the failure in such a system would likely occurÌýin the compression struts rather than in the tension segments themselves.ÌýTherefore, the research also focuses on the issue of compression members andÌýhow to improveÌýtheir form. The goal is to achieve a tension structure thatÌýresists bending, yet can remain lightweight and can be assembled using humbleÌýmaterials.

TheÌýresearch also addresses ecological and sociological concerns.ÌýÌýTechnological advancement in an age ofÌýconsumption has resulted in the creation of extraordinary structures from anÌýarchitectural standpoint; however, the increased use of materials and theÌýexpansion of the humanÌýworld are taking their toll on the earth’s naturalÌýsystems.ÌýÌýThe construction methodÌýproposed still allows the standard of living that Western society has becomeÌýaccustomed to, but in a way that is much more environmentally responsible.ÌýIndeed because of its adaptability andÌýportability, it may afford developingÌýnations a viable building opportunity they could otherwise not have envisaged.