A visualization method for the morphological exploration of tensegrity structures

Tensegrities are a special type of tensile structures that offer a viable alternative to conventional space covering structures. The morphology of tensegrity networks is uniquely and directly related to their structural and mechanical properties. Geometric and topological complexity is a characteristic of the morphology of tensegrity structures and accounts for significant difficulties in the study of their initial configuration, and possibly, for their limited application in building design. In this paper a computer visualization method that involves animation procedures is proposed as a tool for the exploration of their form. The method is based on a graphical approach to the solution of their complex 3D geometry that combines CAD tools with Descriptive Geometry procedures. The display of the tensegrity structure as an animation of moving Paris, allows designers to asses the effect of a given geometric parameter on their architectural form.