Structural System

Architects and engineers have long dreamed of a design solution that provides and complete geometric freedom while achieving economic efficiency.

Unique Approach 

This kind of space frames take advantage of 3-dimensional structural behavior. Built of lightweight and strong galvanized steel or aluminum, the tubes are prefabricated in our computer-based manufacturing system and connected on site with patented aluminum hubs.

The connection of tubes and hub is compact, simple and very efficient – no welding required. The hub is an extruded aluminum cylinder with several threaded slots. Each tube is flattened at the ends into a pattern that slides into a hub’s slot. When all tubes for a hub have been assembled, the joint is finished with washers and a single bolt.

Structures are unique in allowing the transfer of moments across the joint. This means that the deck or cladding can be affixed directly to the space frame members, without secondary structural deck support elements that can be as heavy as the frame itself in other construction methods. Our approach allows designers and engineers to create thin surfaces of double curvature that can span up to 300m (1000 ft).