What is a geodesic dome?
[From Robert T. Bowers’ paper on Domes last posted to GEODESIC in 1989.] A geodesic dome is a type of structure shaped like a piece of a sphere or a ball. This structure is comprised of a complex network of triangles that form a roughly spherical surface. The more complex the network of triangles, the more closely the dome approximates the shape of a true sphere [sic]. By using triangles of various sizes, a sphere can be symmetrically divided by thirty-one great circles. A great circle is the largest circle that can be drawn around a sphere, like the lines of latitude [ED: he means longitude] around the earth, or the equator. Each of these lines divide the sphere into two halves, hence the term geodesic, which is from the Latin meaning “earth dividing.” [From Mitch Amiano] The dome is a structure with the highest ratio of enclosed area to external surface area, and in which all structural members are equal contributors to the whole. There are many sizes of triangles in a geodesic [ED
First we did some research on dome construction to see what materials would be needed. Geodesic domes are comprised of a network of triangles that form a somewhat spherical surface. We found that there are several dome classes that are referred to as 1V, 2V, 3V etc. The more complex the network of triangles, the more spherical the geodesic dome and the higher the class number. A 1V dome has fewer triangles, uses only one size triangle in its simple pattern, and less closely approximates a hemisphere. A 6V dome has many triangles of multiple sizes that are arranged in a complex pattern to create a more smooth and spherical shape. Higher class domes offer greater structural stability and are ideal for larger dome frames. After contemplating the challenges of more complex domes, we decided that a 2V dome made from EMT (electrical metallic tubing) conduit would best meet our needs and would be the most economical choice as well. For more information on what a geodesic dome is visit wikiped
A geodesic dome is a structure built in an almost spherical shape a structure made from struts set on large circles. Because of its curved walls and ceiling, these domes use approximately a third less surface area to enclose the same volume as a traditional box home. In fact, the geodesic dome has the highest ratio of enclosed volume to weight of any manmade structure. This allows less heat to escape through he walls in the winter and less air-conditioned air to escape in the summer. Additionally, the aerodynamics of the rounded walls force air to travel efficiently around rather than bouncing off of walls, keeping energy consumption to a minimum. The Pitfalls of a Geodesic Dome Because the average home is square, basic fixtures, appliances and utilities are made for right angles. Off-the-shelf materials that fit your home will be harder to come by if you don’t use a knowledgeable dome builder. Chimneys can be harder to place and, if it’s a larger structure, fire escapes can be more co
Why is this structure architecturally significant? American inventor, engineer, and architect R. Buckminster Fuller may be best remembered for developing the structurally-innovative geodesic dome, which has been called, “the strongest, most cost-effective structure ever devised.” Students learn how engineering principles are used to support different structures and how Fuller’s interlocking systems of triangles are used to construct domes that distribute stress and weight in the most economical way possible. Students work together to construct a 6.5 x 13’ geodesic dome in the Museum’s Great Hall and apply what they have learned by assembling their own, simple “geo” balls. This program meets content standards for math, science, social studies, and technological literacy. This program comes with an Educator Resource Packet that includes pre- and post-visit lessons and information. Registration Details: Grades 5–9 2 hours (10:00 am-12:00 pm or 12:30-2:30 pm) Minimum class size 15 students
