Design and construction of the ReciPlyDome, a lightweight modular reciprocal dome

Abstract

In the event sector, where there is a search for architectural constructions with an innovative morphology, reuse is key to strive towards more sustainable events. Designing modular structures and detailing them for easy disassembly and re-assembly is an ideal way to encourage and facilitate reuse. This way a longer lifespan is assured for the used components. However, temporary (event) structures are often hard to assemble, which can compromise their reusability. The difficulties of assembly are usually induced by the morphology of the modules or by using certain types of connections. Therefore these structures require optimization in terms of assembly while remaining resource efficient. The main objective of this research is to reimagine a developed structure, the ReciPlyDome, and optimize it in terms of assembly. The ReciPlyDome is a reciprocal dome structure based on a rhombic triacontahedron, whereby all elements are identical (except for the five elements that touch the ground). During the assembly phase of the first version of the ReciPlyDome, torsion in the components appeared to hinder efficient construction. To eliminate this, the dome was reviewed, which led to the development of a new connection system and an improved shape for the beams. A new full-scale version of the dome has been built, showing the positive effect of the improved connection system and the optimised beam position. In-situ measurements were made after construction, illustrating good correspondence between the digital and built model. Further research will focus on the covering of this modular reciprocal dome for outdoor use.