Deployable Dome Form Finding Using Physical and Virtual Models
Abstract This article describes the process of design, analysis, and manufacture of a modular, adaptable, and lightweight folding Bamboo dome. The study developed a new form-finding method with rigid scissors to simulated complex geometric forms to show rigid-bar deformation and using more uniform bars. The structure is composed of six flat semi-arches that fold through the scissor-type system reducing the size of the dome to facilitate is transport. Bamboo bars with a circular section are used as a main material for the structural arches. This research has been contextualized in the development and the form-finding process of curved surfaces with articulated bars. Félix Escrig’s projects have been utilized as the main reference, in particular, his method based on the regular polyhedron’s geometry, which allows obtaining the largest number of similar pieces. For this case study, a new approach to the regular polygon method is applied in the design process. The new methodology allo...