Form follows Form Finding...

SHAPES AND FORMS

An understanding of different shapes and forms is essential to the design of fabric structures. The most common forms of tension fabric structures include:

• Mast supported
• Point supported
• Arch supported
• Frame supported
• Simple Saddle/Hypar
• Pre-engineered
• Tensioned awnings
• Interior applications
• Temporary structures

Mast-supported systems, similar to tent-like structures in form, are made of one or several peaks supported by central poles. A compression ring or “bale” ring connects the fabric to the central support of the mast and facilitates erection and stressing of the fabric.

Point-supported systems produce a clear span with no center mast.  An exterior frame or a series of peripheral masts supports the fabric peaks.

Arch-supported systems also avoid interior supports in addition to introducing curved compression members as the main supporting element. For lateral stability in arch-supported systems, “cross arches” or diagonal bracing are often used.