Minimal Surface Tensegrity Structures: Design Algorithm Implementation in Real World Applications

While the exploration of new configurations of tensegrity structures is expected to contribute to the potential application of the tensegrity concept in building design, their real world implementation poses significant challenges. In this paper, double layer tensegrity networks the two layers of which are minimal surfaces, are considered. Algorithms that address minimal surfaces were developed and were applied and tested during the design and construction of two minimal surface tensegrity structures of ‘helical’ and ‘enneper’ geometry. These two structures were displayed as installations in the context of international exhibitions. For the real world implementation of the algorithms, a method that permits the construction of double layer tensegrity structures from the assembly of collapsible tensegrity units was employed. Spatial constraints, structural considerations, and constructability challenges had also to be addressed. The materialization of these structures has proven the validity of the algorithms, while the challenges encountered, can be used to improve both the design algorithms and the construction and assembly method.