Polyhedric space structures using reciprocally supported elements of various cross-sections

The purpose of this paper is to consider the construction of polyhedric space structures using reciprocally supported structural elements of circular, rectangular, triangular and trapezoidal cross-section. Platonic and Archimedean polyhedral forms are considered for potential space structure construction. Several examples of these basic forms are investigated using elements that are variously aligned to thepolyhedra surface edges. The impact of element cross-section and orientation alternatives is also considered. A feature of structures constructed using reciprocally supported elements is the way the load bearing elements mutually support one another. The advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of trapezoidal and other element cross-sections suitable for polyhedric space structure construction is reviewed and discussed.