GB2473817A - Frameless building structure - Google Patents

Abstract

The frameless structure comprises a plurality of panels 4 that are held in place via the a tension system that serves to urge adjacent panels towards each other. The system may comprise a series of adjustable tension members 9, such as rods, cables or ropes. Between the panels there may be a resiliently deformable material such as a gasket that forms a watertight seal when compressed. The structure may also comprise force transmitting elements 7, 8 which are connected to the tension members and adapted to receive the edges of the panels. The structure may also include a base restraint system which comprises a number of radial members. The structure can be used to make a glass dome. Also claimed is a kit including the panels, tension members and force transmitting elements and a method for constructing the structure.

Description

Structures The present invention relates to structures and to parts thereof.

More specifically, it relates to multipanelled structures, especially to multipanelled buildings or parts thereof A wide range of multipanelled structures are known.

Such structures generally include frames for receiving the panels. The frame itself often requires one or more permanent supports.

Thus, for example, a typical greenhouse structure will have a plurality of panes of glass secured in a frame, as well as a plurality of cross members and uprights to provide structural support. This significantly limits the effective interior space available. Thus for example it may be difficult to manoeuvre or position large items within the space because of the locations of internal uprights. Indeed accidental collisions with uprights are not at all unusual.

It is also known to provide multipanelled dome structures. These can be used to provide relatively large interior spaces.

For example WO 98/07392 describes a large span dome that is referred to therein as the "space truss dome". This utilises a primary network of struts in which the struts are incorporated in a manner that fully triangulates the network of the dome. A secondary network of truss members is also provided inside the dome. The primary and secondary networks are operably linked together by tie members.

This arrangement is said to avoid the problem of "snap through" whereby panels can distort under natural loads (e.g. wind snow or ice) or under artificial loads (e.g. lights, climate control equipment, etc., that may be suspended within the dome).

An alternative approach to the problem of snap through that is discussed in WO 98/07392 is the main existing approach of making a frame stronger by using struts of greater cross section modulus. This is said to be the "obvious approach for preventing the occurrence of snap through in a dome".

Another dome is shown in WO 00/79077. Here composite trusses are provided with each truss being connected to an adjacent one by a cross bracing element so as to form a frame.

Cylindrical hinges are provided and are said to avoid the need for precise joints to be formed.

The resultant structure is indicated to be sufficiently strong to be lifted and lowered into position.

A further dome is illustrated in GB 2453103. This describes a structure for supporting panels that has a timber frame and includes a system of steel connecting plates and tension rods. This system can be used to provide an elegant dome-like structure or other curved structures. It includes a timber frame but does not require additional internal supports such as columns, girders, etc. DE 19514818 is a further example of a multipanelled structure with a frame. This is designed to provide glazing for façade walls. Here fixer heads are provided that are engaged by hanger stays designed as pressure bolts so as to grip glazing panels. The stays respond to tension and compression and are secured at their far ends to the building structure so as to provide support. The supporting frame is in the form of a grid of bars. The system is said to provide improved strength against high loads that may occur under adverse weather conditions.

GB 2441379 describes another panel support frame said to be useful in facades (as well as canopies or roofs). The frame is made from tubes into which tension forces are transferred.

Sliding plates that support the panels are provided around the perimeter of the structure. The positioning of the plates can be adjusted to support different sized panels. The invention disclosed in GB 2441379 is particularly useful for supporting bolted glass panels in a façade, roof or canopy. It is said to reduce the quantity of tubular steel required for a frame and also the amount of welding needed.

Thus all of the structures described above all provide support by using frames for the panels.

They vary in the nature of frames or in the nature of additional components, such as tensioning systems, supports etc. The present invention takes a radically different approach.

According to the present invention there is provided a frameless structure comprising a plurality of panels that are held in place via the action of a tension system that serves to urge panels towards each other.

It is desirable that resiliently deformable material is located between adjacent panels.

Preferably the resiliently deformable material forms a seal under the action of the tension system.

More preferably the seal is watertight and/or windproof, at least in respect of typical weather conditions that normally apply in the location of the structure.

The resiliently deformable material can be shaped accordingly. Preferably it is in the form of gaskets or another seal structure.

Individual panels may be supplied with gaskets/seals already in place. Alternatively they may be fitted onto the panels on site, prior to construction of the structure.

A wide range of resiliently deformable material materials can be used, including synthetic rubber materials, plastics, silicone-based materials, etc. The resiliently deformable material becomes compressed as panels are urged together due to the forces transmitted by the tension members and a seal is thereby formed.

Prior to the present invention it was generally thought that frames were essential for structural integrity of free standing multi-panelled structures that did not have internal upright supports.

The absence of a frame is therefore a surprising feature that would not normally be contemplated.

The present invention provides various advantages over existing approaches to multipanelled structures.

The absence of a frame into/onto which panels are fitted can significantly improve the aesthetics of the structure.

It can also allow large amounts of natural light to enter the structure if the panels are transparent or translucent. If the structure is used for accommodating people this can reduce lighting bills as well as making the structure a more pleasant place to live or work. Structures of the present invention can therefore be much more environmentally friendly than conventional structures The provision of large amounts of natural light is also an important feature if the structure is used for growing plants (e.g. if it is a greenhouse or a conservatory), because the extra light can of course boost yields.

A still further advantage is that in preferred embodiments of the present invention the overall weight of the structure can be reduced relative to structures with frames for the panels. This is because the panels themselves can be utilised as structural supports, rather than providing them as inserts or cladding in/on a supporting framework.

Reductions in weight and/or in the materials required can help in reducing costs and of course provide environmental benefits relative to standard structures that require frames.

They can also reduce construction times. Indeed it is envisaged that many structures of the present invention can be made in less than a week and in some cases in less than a day. This helps reduce the cost of labour required.

A further benefit of structures that can be constructed and taken apart quickly is that they are ideal as temporary structures. Such structures may be used at outdoor events, wedding receptions, festivals, temporary shelters or stores, etc. There is an infinite number of possible applications.

Turning now in further detail to the tension system, this preferably comprises a plurality of tension members. (Whilst it would be possible to use a single very long wire or cable that is operably cotmected to all panels by being passed back and forth through various nodes, this would increase the complexity of construction and is not preferred.) The tension members may, for example, be in the form of any of the following or combinations thereof: tension rods, other cables, wires, ropes, chains, straps, cables, fibres, springs, pulleys, wires, other tensile elements, etc. Tension rods are most preferred.

The tension members are adjustable. For example they may be twisted, stretched, wound, pulled, tightened, etc., so as to introduce and/or adjust tension.

This may be achieved by using any desired tension adjustors. These include turnkeys, adjustable screws, ratchets, winding mechanisms, pulleys, reels, levers, etc. In some cases tools such as spanners, screwdrivers may be used. In other cases this may be done manually without the aid of additional tools.

The tension members preferably comprise tension indicators. These may for example be markings, apertures, indentations, protrusions or other indicators.

It is also possible to provide markings or other indicia to show maximum and/or minimum desired tensions.

If desired, a tension gauge can be used to assess tension. For example the gauge may be used to measure the change in distance between two tension indicators, with the level of tension being directly proportional to the change in distance.

A tension gauge is however not essential. Magnitude of tension can be assessed by eye and/or by hand. Indeed skilled workers should be able to dispense with tension indicators and rely on judgement.

They can gradually increase tension until the desired effects of panels being urged together to provide structural strength and of a seal being formed are achieved. At this point further tensioning is not required. Indeed if the tension becomes too high this can damage components and is of course undesirable. Thus excessive tensioning should be avoided.

A person skilled in the art of tensioning can therefore stop further tensioning once a desired result has been achieved.

It is preferred that releasable tension locks are provided, whereby adjustable tension members can be locked once a desired tension has been achieved. Said locks may for example be in the form of locking nuts, locking bolts or releasable clamps.

A finished structure may have all tension members at appropriate levels of tension. It is however possible that over time tension members or other tension systems may slacken. Thus it can be desirable to periodically check tension and adjust it accordingly (if necessary after releasing any locking mechanisms).

A plurality of force transmitting elements located between the panels is preferably provided.

These elements are operably connected to the tension system and serve to transmit forces that urge adjacent panels towards each other and thereby compress said resiliently deformable material.

The force transmitting elements are preferably shaped to receive edges or corners of panels.

Thus they can include appropriately shaped recesses or grooves.

In a preferred embodiment (especially where panels or formed of a fragile material, such as glass) protective material can be provided between said force transmitting elements and said panels. The protective material is desirably a resilient material that prevents substantial damage to said panels. It may for example be a plastics material, wood, a composite material, etc. The protective material may be positioned adjacent to the sides and/or ends of panels. It may be in one piece form or in the form of several pieces.

Preferably it is a harder material than the material from which the seals/gaskets between panels are formed, although it should not be too hard so as to cause significant damage. It should of course also not be unduly fragile. It may therefore be able to flex, compress or otherwise deform without breaking. This can take into account variations in external forces that may for example arise under different weather conditions, different temperatures, etc. Indeed a limited degree of deformation may be desired to take into account normal stresses and strains of a building, tolerances of construction materials, etc. The protective material may be provided as shims, wedges, or inserts, for example. There are other many other possibilities, including members with "U" shaped cross sections that can fit over edges of panels (to protect ends and sides thereof), other structures comprising grooves, channels or indents that can receive panels, clips, etc. In some cases the protective material may be shapedlprovided on site and then positioned appropriately. It is also possible to provide panels with the protective material already in place and then to connect the panels with the force transmitting elements. A further alternative is to provide the protective material already in place in recesses or grooves of the force transmitting elements prior to inserting panels.

The force transmitting elements may directly connect with tension members and may be shaped accordingly.

Preferably however the force transmitting elements are not directly connected to the tension members, but are connected via intermediate members.

In either event it is preferred that the tension members do not contact the panels. It is desirable that they are not so far away from the panels as to significantly reduce the available interior space. Indeed it is preferred that they are close to the panels in order to urge them together in the desired manner.

Actual proximities will depend on the size and shape of the relevant structure, the nature of the tension members and panels, etc. In many cases the point at which a tension member is connected to a force transmitting member/intermediate member (as appropriate) will be less then 30 cm away from a panel to which force is being applied. This distance may be less than 25 cm, less than 20 cm, less than cm, less than 10 cm, less than 5 cm or less than 2.5 cm. This is very different from certain prior art structures where tension members are mounted on an internal frame and spaced some distance from panels.

In a preferred aspect of the present invention tension members associated with a panel cross one another. They may do this with or without touching each other and/or the panel. They may substantially span a panel (allowing for connection to force transmitting elements or intermediate members). They may operably connect corners to corners, edges to edges, corners to edges, etc. Preferably however they connect opposing corners of a panel.

They may cross at a point that corresponds to/is proximal to centre point of the panel. This is desired in many cases, but is not essential.

Turning now to preferred shapes of structures of the present invention, it is preferred that the structure is generally curved or comprises curves. It may for example be a dome.

The dome need not have an entrance. (This could apply, for example, in respect of a dome designed to fit onto the roof of a building.) En other cases the structure may include an entrance and/or one or more windows or apertures.

The design can be adapted accordingly, as discussed later in the examples.

The structure may be provided with a base restraint system.

This may for example include a plurality of radial members. The radial members do not need to contact each other but may converge towards a central hub or other central component and may be operably connected thereto. The connection may allow tightening or loosening (e.g. via bolts or screws). If desired, one or more protective inserts may be provided between the radial members and central component. The one or more inserts may be formed of any suitable resilient material.

The radial members are preferably connected to force transmitting members located at the base of the structure. This is done at/close to the ends of the members that are remote from the central component.

The base restraint system can provide increased stability and rigidity. It can prevent undesired movement that might otherwise occur (e.g. under adverse weather conditions).

There are of course many other alternative systems that could be used to the radial system described above.

It would for example be possible to use a concrete foundation and attach the structure thereto by bolts, screws or other attachment means.

A base restraint system is not however essential. The structure may, for example, be attached to or built upon an existing structure (e.g. as a dome for the roof of a building) or may already be sufficiently stable. Indeed, as discussed earlier, in some instances the structure may only be temporary. Thus it may not need to have long term stability and/or stability under extreme conditions. An example here might be a temporary structure for a summer fete.

It is also possible to provide an optional restraint system at a higher level (e.g. at or towards the top of the structure). This can also incorporate radial members, if desired although there are many other possibilities including cross members, etc. If such a system is provided then it is preferably provided above head height if the structure is intended to accommodate people.

Both base and upper restraint systems are discussed in greater detail in the examples.

Whether or not such systems are present, it is preferred that the finished structure does not include uprights.

If uprights are provided then it is preferred that they do not substantially reduce the available internal space for practical purposes. For example in some cases uprights may simply be used to support an entranceway, if this is required. Here it is again preferred that there are no uprights to support the top of the structure.

(The terms "top" and "roof' are used interchangeably here to refer to an uppermost part of the structure. Indeed a distinct roof in the conventional sense may not be present, because the top may simply merge in with the overall structure. This is of course often the case for curvedldomed structures, where there may be no distinct sides, roof, etc.) it is preferred that the finished structure is self supporting, especially if it is not intended to be connected to another building or part thereof. This does not however exclude the use of temporary props during construction, if needed. It is nevertheless preferred that any temporary props are not used in the finished structure. They are not required.

As indicated earlier, in many cases a structure of the present invention may not stand alone, but may be connected to, or incorporated in, another structure. The other structure may provide some external support. For example the structure of the invention may abut another structure (e.g. as an annex or extension) or may be positioned above said structure (e.g. as a roof or dome).

Turning now to the nature of the panels used, any panels conventionally used in construction can be used, provided that the panels can be urged together by the action of the tension means and can provide sufficient structural integrity.

In most cases it is also preferred that they are waterproof, at least in the finished structure.

Thus for example wooden panels, metal panels, synthetic panels, (e.g. laminates, plastics, composite materials, etc), glass or glazing can all be used. Material can be treated prior to use if necessary to make it waterproof. Other treatments can also be used. For example glass or glazing may be tinted to reduce glare. It may be coated to provide "self cleaning glass", etc. Glass or glazing panels are most preferred. Whatever the nature of the panels, one or more solar panels may be incorporated if desired. This can help reduce electricity usage and thereby provide environmental benefits, as well as long-term cost savings.

The structure may also incorporate one or more entrances, windows or apertures for ventilation. For example a window may be an inner part of a larger panel, with the edges of said larger panel being urged against adjacent panels. Thus the window may still open and close within a larger panel. (It may be provided as an inserted into a cut-out section of a larger panel.) Many variations of the structure are therefore possible.

The structure can also have any desired function.

For example it may function as a glasshouse, a conservatory, a dome for the roof of a building, a conference venue, a dwelling, a concert venue, an exhibition venue, a planetarium, an office, an outhouse, an extension, a storage area, a gymnasium, a hot-tub enclosure, a temporary building; or a part of any of the aforesaid.

The invention is of course particularly suitable for applications where an interior space is desired that is uninterrupted by columns/other internal uprights that might otherwise be needed to support a roof.

Thus the present invention can provide a wide variety of new and inventive multipanelled structures, with major advantages over existing multipanelled structures.

In addition to the structures of the invention, the present invention also provides kits for forming such structures.

Thus, according to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit that includes a plurality of panels shaped for forming a desired structure, but does not include a frame for said panels or components shaped for forming such a frame, said kit further comprising one or more of the following: a) a plurality of tension members b) a plurality of force transmitting elements for operable engagement with said tension members so as to urge said panels together.

The kit preferably further comprises a plurality of gaskets or seals for said panels.

It may also include a plurality of inserts shaped for insertion between force transmitting elements and said panels; a plurality of intermediate members for operably connecting said tension members to said force transmitting members; etc. In some cases components for providing a base restraint system and /or for forming an upper restraint system may be included. Alternatively they can be included in separate kits, if desired.

If the structure is to be connected to another structure then means for making such attachment may also be provided.

The components of the kit of the present invention are preferably shaped for producing a generally curved structure (e.g. a dome structure or a part of said dome). The kit may optionally include instructions and/or plans in respect of the construction of said a structure.

In addition to structures and kits, the present invention includes methods of construction.

These methods preferably involve using a kit as aforesaid, although this is not essential since components may be obtained otherwise than in kit form, if desired. (For example one or more features may be preassembled.) A preferred method comprises building up arrays of panels under appropriate tension conditions until the structure is complete.

More specifically, the method can include building up arrays of panels with resilient material located between adjacent panels and using a tensioning system to urge adjacent panels towards each in a manner that applies compressive forces to said material.

In a preferred embodiment tension members associated with a lower panel are either not tensioned, or are not fully tensioned, until an upper panel has been added above said lower panel with resilient material therebetween. (If necessary, temporary props can be used to support panels during construction and prior to full tensioning.) If desired a base andlor an upper restraint system may be provided as described earlier.

The method may involve leaving the construct with an open top area (e.g. for ventilation) or fitting a top (roof).

The top may itself comprises one or more panels.

Such panels, if provided, may be shaped differently from other panels, although they may be formed of the same material if desired.

For example generally triangular panels may be provided that converge at an apex.

As an alternative a single panel shaped to fit on top of the lower layer of panels may be provided. This may, for example, be a convex shape. Alternatively it may be flat. It may be polygonal. Thus, for example, it may be in the shape of an octagon if there are eight upper edges of a row of panels, onto which the top is to be placed.

There is a wide range of possibilities. A top can be shaped accordingly to fit in with the overall desired shape of the completed structure.

The top may itself comprise tension members and may be held in place accordingly. For example, an upper connector may be provided that is formed of a strong material and that operably connects with upper ends of said tension members (either directly or via intermediate components). This may be provided at an apex of a dome structure for example.

The upper connector may conveniently be formed of metal or some other rigid structure and may serve to distribute tension forces evenly. It is preferably symmetrical in shape. It may for example be circular or domed and may include a plurality of nodes for operable connection to tension members. Preferably it is located at an apex of the structure and does not include a supporting upright below it.

It is of not essential for the top to be in such a form. Indeed, for simplicity, a top may simply be secured in place above lower panels by conventional means (e.g. by clips, grips, hinges, etc.). The top may even be in the form of a simple hatch that can be opened or closed via a hinge mechanism. It is again preferred here that the top is not supported by any internal uprights, so as to maximise internal space.

The top may be provided with a seal or gasket. This can aid in weatherproofing, if necessary.

Having described the invention in general terms, and having also discussed various preferred embodiments thereof, the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figures 1 to 13 show various components used in forming the base of a multifaceted structure of the present invention.

Figures 14 and 15 show a panel used to provide a facet of the structure.

Figure 16 shows the first panel in place.

Figures 17 to 24 show various components used at a level above the base of the structure.

Figure 25 shows two panels in place.

Figure 26 illustrates an arrangement of tension members relative to a frame and nodes.

Figure 27 shows a first row of panels in place.

Figure 28 illustrates how the base restraint for the structure can be tightened.

Figure 29 shows two rows of panels in place.

Figure 30 shows three rows of panels in place.

Figure 31 shows four rows of panels in place.

Figure 32 shows four rows of panels in place, together with an upper restraint system.

Figure 33 shows four rows of panels in place, together with a roof structure.

Figure 34 shows the same general structure as shown in Figure 33 but with an opening that can be used as a doorway, as well as supports for said doorway, Figure 35 shows a half-dome (similar to half of the dome shown in Figure 34), when secured to a building.

Figure 36 shows two partial domes of the present invention connected to each other.

Figure 37 shows a structure that is generally similar to that shown in Figure 33, apart from the fact that it is tow rows taller and has a more spherical overall appearance.

Example 1

Construction of a dome The following example illustrates the construction of a multi-faceted dome.

It is also possible to use the present invention to construct other structures, especially (but not exclusively) structures having a generally curved appearance.

The panels are forced together under compression by using a system of operably linked tension rods. This compresses resilient material located between the panels and produces watertight seals. The forces are distributed around the structure thus producing structural stability without the need for internal supporting uprights or without a frame for said panels.

Some of the key components of the faceted dome structure used in this example are discussed below: Panels The panels shown in the examples have upper and lower edges parallel but sides that are non-parallel. Thus they are in the form of trapezia and decrease in width from bottom to top.

(There are other possibilities including a range of polygons, as is known in the field of construction using multiple panels.) The dimensions vary to suit the dome that they are forming. They are sufficiently rigid to resist the compression forces imposed on them by the tensioning of the rods and are also able to resist external applied forces such as wind pressure / suction and snow.

They can therefore be constructed from a wide variety of materials, including for example glass, wood, steel, plastics, other synthetic materials, or combinations of the aforesaid. Nodes

The nodes are the "force transmitting elements" discussed earlier. Thus they transfer the forces from the tension rods into the panels. They also hold panels in a manner that resists rotation.

They can be constructed from a range of materials that are currently commonly used in load-bearing applications e.g. steel, other metal alloys, wood, timber, hard plastics, composite materials, etc. They can, for example, be constructed by welding or screwing or bolting together plates or timber ply sections or by a casting.

Connections between nodes and the tension rods can be made by the use of a connecting plate (corresponding to the "intermediate member" described earlier) screwed to the inside face of the node. The connecting plate may for example be formed of a steel or metal alloy, but any other suitable material may of course be used.

Tension Rods These are a commonly used and widely available product used in construction and in sailing.

They are often made from stainless or carbon steel, but they can also be made from other metal alloys or other materials. They comprise a length of rod which has a left-hand thread at one end and a right hand thread at the other end. A fork (or other turning member) is then screwed on at each end and by attaching each fork to a structure and turning the rod a tension force can be developed in the rod. Cables with turnbuckles could be used in lieu of tension rods.

Indeed any other appropriate tension system could be used.

Gasket Around the perimeter of each panel a gasket is provided. This performs two functions; it transfers the compression forces between the node and the panel and between panels and it is sufficiently malleable to compress under load to effectively seal the joint between adjacent panels. Shims

In order to allow for construction tolerances of the panels and nodes there is a gap between the jaws of the node and the face of each panel. The gap is closed by having shims inserted to effectively clamp the panel in the node. These correspond to the "inserts" deséribed earlier.

The shims can be made in a variety of thicknesses and can be combined so that variations in the gap size can be accommodated. They can be made from a variety of materials, but should preferably be relatively soft (compared to the node or panel) so as not to scratch the node or panel. Thus for example shims formed of wood or a plastics material may be used. A wide variety of other materials are acceptable.

Shims can also be provided in base and upper restraint systems, which are discussed below.

A typical sequence of construction of the dome will now be described: Construction Sequence At the base of the dome nodes in a different form from other nodes are provided. These are referred to herein as "base nodes" to distinguish from standard nodes that are used in the bulk of the construction The base nodes are capable of sitting on a flat surface and of being fixed to a base structure, which is referred to here as a "base restraint system", since it restrains undesired movement.

In this example two threaded apertures are provided in each base node for fixing the node to a base restraint system via screws.

Four threaded apertures are provided in an inside face of the base nodes for fixing said nodes to a connecting plate, which is referred to here as "a base connecting plate" to distinguish from a standard connecting plate as described later.

The positioning and! or number of apertures can of course be varied. It is of course also possible to provide alternatives securing means to screws. For example ties, clamps, rivets, etc. may be used.

Side and rear views of a base node are shown in Figures 1 and 2.

Perspective views from one side and from below a base node are shown in Figures 3 and 4.

Views of the base connecting plate from various angles are shown in Figures 5 to 8. This plate is fixed to a base node with countersunk screws.

It is a shaped and bent plate with two holes for connecting to the tension rods and four countersunk holes for connecting to the base node.

The base restraint system shown has two main components: radial restraints and a central restraint.

The radial restraints are shown in plan view in plan in Figure 9 and from above and one side in Figure 10.

The central restraint is shown in plan view in Figures 11 and in side view in Figure 12. Figure 13 shows the combination of radial restraints and central restraint. (For ease of reference in Figures 9 to 13 other components such as nodes, panels, connecting plates etc have been omitted.) As indicated earlier, the primary function of the base restraint system is to restrain the base nodes against substantial movement once the dome is complete. However it allows the positioning of the base nodes to be adjusted whilst the dome is under construction.

Other types of base restraint system are course be possible, as long as the primary function of restraining base nodes against substantial movement once the dome is complete is met, and as long as base nodes are also not unduly restricted during tensioning.

In this example, during construction radial restraints are laid along each radial line of the dome. Here the radial restraint is formed from a rectangular section of material in timber or steel which has two countersunk holes at one end to enable fixing to be made to the base node and single hole at the opposite end for fixing to the central restraint. The base nodes are attached to the end of each radial restraint using two countersunk bolts. (Other arrangements or materials are of course possible.) The central restraint can conveniently be formed of the same material as the radial supports, although this is not essential. It acts as a central hub for each radial restraint to attach to.

During construction connections to the radial restraint can be made but left loosely fixed to allow the base nodes to move during tensioning.

Once the base restraint system is in position the first panel can be installed.

A front view of a panel is shown in Figure 14 and a side view is shown in Figure 15. Each panel shown is in the form of a trapezium shaped to suit the dimensions of the dome and each has a gasket running around the perimeter. The panels can be constructed from a variety of materials or combinations thereof. The gaskets are made from a material that can transfer compression forces so as to hold panels in place, but can also deform sufficiently to ensure a watertight seal is made between the panels.

Figure 16 is a partial perspective view showing the first panel in place. Shims are used to fill the gap between the face of the panel and the inside face of the base node. Each panel is slotted into two base nodes. In this view the radial restraints are indicated as I, with the base nodes indicated as 2. The base connecting plate is indicated as 3. The panel is indicated as 4 and the gasket is indicated as 5. The shims are indicated as 6.

After installation of a first base panel a second base panel is then added, following the same procedure as the first panel. Here standard nodes are used, which are different from base nodded. Illustrative views of the standard node from different angles are shown in Figures 17 to 20.

In this example each standard node can be seen to have four drilled and tapped holes for connection to a standard connecting plate (which is again different in shape from the base connecting plate described earlier).

Illustrative views of the standard connecting plate from different angles are shown in Figures 21 to 24 A partial perspective view showing the first two panels in position, together with the first standard node and standard connecting plate is shown in Figure 25. In this view the standard node is indicated as 7 and the standard connecting plate is indicated as 8.

Further panels, nodes and connecting plates may then be added until a lower ring of panels is complete. The tension rods are then be added to this section of the structure. The tension rods run diagonally across each panel in each direction and are connected to the connecting plates in each panel corner.

An arrangement of tension rods on a panel of said lower ring of panels is shown in Figure 26 with a view of the whole lower ring of panels and tension rods shown in Figure 27. Here tension rods are indicated as 9. Where the rods cross, one rod is passed over the other one.

Construction of the second ring of panels can commence once the lower ring is complete.

This can follow a similar sequence to that used for the first with panels and shims, nodes, connecting plates and tension rods being installed in sequence around the circumference.

When two full rings of panels are complete, tensioning of the rods to the lower ring is undertaken. This can be achieved by an incremental tensioning, with each rod being tightened a small amount in turn, progressing around the dome circumferentially several times, monitoring the dimensions of the ring to ensure the correct shape is maintained until full tension is reached. Should the ring tend to pull out of shape then adjustments to the tensions will be necessary to pull it back into correct alignment.

Full tension is achieved when the joints between the panels are watertight and the ring is sufficiently rigid.

In some cases a desired tension or tension range may be specified. This can be verified by use of a strain gauge.

It is even possible to use more computerised systems to set/adjust tension, if desired. Here a computer can be operably linked to one or more strain gauges (e.g. via wireless technology) and can send out signals to one or more tension adjusters in respect of any adjustment required.

(Indeed it is also possible to use such systems to monitor and adjust tension once a structure is complete, should this be necessary.) After tensioning the lower ring fully the connection between the central and radial restraints in the base support structure can be fully tightened.

Here an initial small gap between the ends of the radial restraints and the central restraint can to be filled with shims and the connecting bolts tightened.

A view of this completed connection between the central and radial restraints is shown in Figure 28. Here the shims are indicated as 10 and the connecting bolts as 11.

[As discussed earlier the main purpose of the base restraint system is to prevent movement of the base nodes relative to each other so it would of course be possible to use alternative configurations of frame to provide this restraint.] If desired, temporary propping of the free edge of the dome can be provided.

However any temporary props should not restrict movement during tensioning and are preferably removed as each ring is completed. Further rings are constructed in a similar manner.

Views showing completed second, third and fourth and fifth rings of panels of the dome structure are provided in Figures 29, 30, 31 and 32 respectively. These show the structure after completion of each ring of panels and associated nodes, plates and tension rods.

Once all rings are fully tensioned in accordance with the process described above then a final check on the tension in all of the rods should be made and any adjustments made as required.

When this is complete the tension rods can be locked in position using a locknut on the rods to prevent any loosening of the rods.

These illustrate a dome structure with five rings of panels from base to top, but this is of course non-limiting. The number of facets is of course also non-limiting (twenty are shown but fewer or more could be present depending upon the structure).

The panels shown are effectively four-point fixed panels under lateral loading and can be checked for their structural load-bearing capacity according to the loadings to which the structure will be subjected to. The material used in the panel together with the thickness and size of the panel can be taken into account in determining the load-bearing capacity. However this is well within the realms of the skilled person. If necessary panel materials, thicknesses, tension systems, etc., can all be varied accordingly.

The very top row of nodes will be of similar form to the base nodes as there is no continuation of the tension rods beyond this level.

An upper restraint system is preferably provided. This can provide increased rigidity and restrain the top nodes against undesired/excessive movement. This structure can take a wide variety of configurations as long as this function is fulfilled.

A view of a structure with an upper restraint system in place is shown in Figure 32.

The structure of the dome is now essentially complete unless it is desired to add a top over the upper restraint system.

A top may be added, for example, to provide weatherproofing and/or ventilation and/or to give a decorative finish to the structure.

It can take a variety of forms or configurations.

A view of one possible completed structure is shown in Figure 33 in which the top comprised a plurality of triangular segments that meet at a central apex.

As another alternative it would for example be possible to provide a top in the form of a single pane, shaped accordingly.

Suitable flooring can of course be added inside the dome and can be laid on top of the base restraint system (if present).

Openings in the structure: Openings may be provided in the structure by providing support to the nodes adjacent to the opening. Around the perimeter of the opening the nodes can be provided in a truncated form, either a half-node similar to the base nodes or a one quarter or three-quarter node. The nodes can be temporarily support during construction in a manner that does not restrain the nodes against movement during tensioning. Following completion of tensioning a more permanent support system can be provided if needed. A view one such support system for an opening that could function as an entrance is shown in Figure 34. This is of course still very different from dome structures where a frame is provided to support all panels.

Other alternatives are possible. For example a rigid edge or periphery may be provided around the opening, clamps may be used, welding may be used, etc. An operable opening in a panel can be provided by providing a cut-out in the panel to the size required and incorporating the operable opening within the cut-out. The size of the cut-out must not be so large as to adversely affect the structural integrity of the panel in terms of its resistance to the applied forces.

Example 2

Constructing a part-dome A part-dome structure may be required, e.g. to abut an existing building or structure. The principles of forming a part-dome are similar to those to form an opening i.e. perimeter nodes can be provided along a free edge and be given require temporary support during construction that does not restrain the nodes during tensioning. For completion a more permanent support for each perimeter node can be provided, for example by fixing them to the existing building or structure, using ties, bolts or other securing means.

Figure 35 illustrates a half dome structure abutting an existing building. This can for example function as an entrance to a building, a conservatory, a porch, an additional work or leisure space etc. There is an infinite number of possible applications here If desired seals, gaskets, flashing, membranes, etc may be used as appropriate to aid weatherproofing. For example a seal between the part dome structure and the building may be provided. Flashing may optionally be provided between a face of the building and an upper edge of the partial dome structure that abuts said face.

Many other modifications are of course possible, as is well known in the art of construction.

Example 3

Constructing multi-unit structures Construction of shapes including multiple domes, part-domes or other multiple units can be achieved.

This allows structures with many different internal spaces to be provided, which can be used for different purposes (e.g. as different rooms).

If necessary, supporting members may be provided where the units intersect one another.

These can, for example, be curved supports (e.g. made of metal, wood or some other resilient material) and may follow the line of the intersection so as not to interfere with the interior space.

Other supports at these positions are of course possible, as are supports at entrance ways, if desired. However supports are not required elsewhere. Furthermore the panels are not set in frames and therefore the structure can still be considered a frameless multi-panelled structure An example of a multi-unit structure including two partial domes and am internal arched support between the two units (not shown) is provided in Figure 36.

It is not essential that the multi-unit structure includes identically/similarly shaped units, although this may be preferred for some applications.

It is therefore possible to connect different structures of the present invention to provide a wide range of "fusion" structures.

It is of course also possible to connect structures of the present invention (whether in multi-unit or single unit form) to external structures, as described earlier. This further extends the possibilities for fusion structures and for creative design.

Example 4

Construction of structures with more spherical/curved overall appearances Figure 37 illustrates a more complete spherical shape than shown earlier The structure shown therein is generally constructed as for the dome shown in Figure 33, apart from the fact that the first two rows are additional and that they project slightly outwards.

This arrangement allows taller structures to be constructed for example.

It is of course possible to increase the number of facets and/or rows of panels to produce structures having more curved overall appearances.

A wide range of structures can therefore be constructed.

Indeed two half-spheres can be constructed initially and then secured together to provide a sphere.

Glossary Certain terms used herein will now described in further detail below.

Frameless structure This term indicates that the structure does not include a system in which all or a majority of panels are surrounded by or supported by frames. Thus there is no need for the finished structure to have external or internal frames for the panels Base restraints systems, such as those described earlier (also referred to as lower restraint systems), are however permitted and are considered for the purposes of the present invention not to constitute frames. It is also permitted to provide an upper restraint system at or close to the apex of the structure. Again, this is not considered to constitute a frame.

If doors are provided then supports for these may be provided. It is even possible to provide individual doors with frames, or windows with frames. However, it is preferred that all or the majority of structural panels that do not function as windows are frameless.

Comprises The term "comprises" indicates that something is present. This term therefore covers both "consists of" and "includes".

Generally curved This term includes a shape arising from panels that are themselves curved but also a shape arsing from planar panels that are arranged to give an overall impression of a curve when viewed from a distance. It is for example well known to provide domes that appear curved but are made up from many planar panels. Similarly, an area of glazing may appear curved but may consist of a series of panels with each panel being set at a slightly different angle from an adjacent one so as to give the overall impression of a curve when a series of panels are viewed together. Indeed it is generally far more cost effective to use planar panels rather than panels that are curved, especially if materials such as glass or glazing are used. Such materials tend to be expensive and can also be fragile if not handled correctly. Panel

This includes any panels used in construction. A panel may have one or more layers (e.g. it may be a single pane of glass or a piece of double glazing). It may be planar or curved. It may have a regular or irregular shape, provided that a desired structure can be formed using said panel.

Indeed different shaped and/or different sized panels may be used for different parts of a structure, if necessary.

Preferred panels are generally polygonal in shape. More preferably they are in the form of trapezia, i.e. with two parallel and two non parallel sides. However many other alternatives are possible.

Most panels will have a thickness that is much less than the panel height or depth. The thickness will depend upon the nature of the structure being constructed. In many cases however the panels will be less than 30 cm thick. For example they may be less than 25cm, less than 20 cm, less than 15 cm, less than 10 cm or less than 5 cm thick. Preferably the thickness is less than 2 cm or less than 1.5 cm. For example thicknesses of between 0.5cm and 1.5 cm or between 1 cm and 1.5 cm may typically be used. (11 mm or 14mm thick panels are commonly used in construction.) Greater thickness are however possible, especially for large structures or where panels are necessarily bulky (e.g. panels that may accommodate insulation, electrical components, etc).

Indeed panels designed for prefabricated buildings or building intended for rapid construction may be hollow and may already comprise insulation, wiring, etc. Thus there are many possible forms of panel that can be used. Indeed there is no limitation provided that the panel can be held in place in a structure of the present invention.