April 22, 1969 H. B.

ALLEN 3,439,460
’ ‘ 'GEODESIC DOME STRUCTURE
Filed ‘July ‘14, 1967 Sheet /’ of 6

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ATTORNEYS
April 22, 1969 ‘ ‘ ‘ H. B. ALLEN “ 3,439,460
r ‘ ‘ ‘ GEODESIC DOME STRUCTURE _

Filed July 14, 1967 ‘ " I ‘ ‘Sheet 2 of e "

H02

‘ INVENTOR

HOWARD B. ALLEN

ATTORNEYS
April 22, .1969 H. B. ALLEN 3,439,460
GEODESIC DOME STRUCTURE
Filed July 14, 1967 Sheet 3 of

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ATTORNEYS
 April 22, ‘1969 ' I ‘H. B. ALLEN, 3,439,460
' GECIJDESIC DOME STRUCTURE ‘
“ Filed July 14, 1967‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ Sheet 4 of 6

; jH925

ATTORNEYJ
 April 22, 1969 H. B. ALLEN
3,439,460
‘ GEODES‘IC DOME STRUCTURE."
’ Filed July 14,. 1967 5
Sheet ' of 6

HOWARD B. ALLEN

“Am MW x/‘i'emédm
ATTQRNEYS
‘April 22, 1969 H. ‘a, ALLEN 3,439,460 ‘
GEODESIG DOME STRUCTURE '
Filed July 14, 1967 ‘ ‘Sheet of 6“

' mvsmoa

HOWARD B. ALLEN

ATTORNEY-5
 1
‘ United States Patent 0 'ice 3,439,460
Patented Apr. 22, 1969
1 2
of two strips in the same belt when a belt is formed of
3,439,460 more than a single strip;
GEODESIC DOME STRUCTURE
Howard E. Allen, 334 1st Ave, FIGURE 10, Sheet 1, is an exploded perspective view
‘Charles Town, W. Va. 25414 showing portions of two vertically adjacent belts posi
tioned preparatory to being attached to one another;
Filed July 14, 1967, Ser. No. 653,553
Int. ‘Cl. 1304b 1/32, 7/08 FIGURE 11, Sheet 1, is a perspective view showing the
U.S. Cl. 52--81 44 Claims belt portions of FIGURE 10, attached to each other;
FIGURE 12, Sheet 2, is an enlarged scale, detailed sec
tion on the line 12——12 of FIGURE 11 showing the for
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE 10 mation of a seam between parts of two vertically ad
jacent belts;
A geodesic dome of generally part-spherical form in FIGURE 13, Sheet 2, is a fragmentary perspective view
cludes a belt structure comprising an annular succession of a portion of the assembled dome structure, showing
of adjacent face—linked tetrahedral modules formed of reinforcing tensioning cables and, in detached position,
sheet material. In a horizontal succession of modules one of a number of shingle-like elements applied to the
there are alternate modules having triangular faces and outside of the dome structure for closing open faces of
intervening modules having triangular faces, two faces the tetrahedral modules and for reinforcing the dome
of each alternate module being in face-to-face contact structure;
respectively with two faces of intervening modules on FIGURE 14, Sheet 3, is a detailed perspective view of
opposite sides of the included alternate module. Adjacent 1 a hub or securing element for tying together portions of
modules are connected, inter alia, along lines extending modules in vertically adjacent belts;
along radii of the sphere, thus providing ribs of trusses FIGURE 15, Sheet 4, is a fragmentary section on the
extending spirally generally from base to top of the mod lower part of the line 15—15 of FIGURE 1, showing the
ular structure. One half of the trusses are spiralled in one mounting of the modular structure on a foundation;
direction, and the other half are spiralled in the opposite FIGURE 16, Sheet 4, is an enlarged scale, detailed
direction. All trusses together provide a scissors type truss section on the line 16—-16 of FIGURE 15, showing the
system resistant to twisting forces. mounting of a securing hub in a ?sh plate carried by the
foundation;
FIGURE 17, Sheet 4, is a fragmentary perspective view
30 of the top part of the dome structure;
This invention relates to geodesic domes, and more par
ticularly to such domes formed, for example, of sheet ma FIGURE 18, Sheet 4, is a section on the line 18—18 of
terial such as aluminum or other metal. Domes of this FIGURE 17;
general category have been proposed, and indeed some FIGURE 19, Sheet 4, is a fragmntary section on the
constructed, heretofore. line 19-19 of FIGURE 18;
One object of the invention is to provide an improved FIGURE 20, Sheet 4, is an enlarged scale section on
geodesic dome of which its simplicity of design and manu the line 20-20 of FIGURE 19;
facture, including erection, its stability and stress resist FIGURE 21, Sheet 4, is an exploded perspective view
ing capabilities, and other desirable attributes derive of two adjacent modules in the upper part of the dome
basically from a unique arrangement of tetrahedral mod and a ?tting received by these modules when connected
ules which are linked to one another facially as distin for mounting or locating a tensioning cable or the like;
guished from marginally. FIGURE 22‘, Sheet 5, is an enlarged scale section on
Another object of the invention is to provide a dome the line 15-15 of FIGURE 1, showing one-half of the
structure of the character stated in which the modules are dome structure;
so relatively arranged and interconnected as to provide FIGURE 23, Sheet 5, is a fragmentary vertical section,
a scissors type truss system having unusual capacity to being an enlargement of a portion of FIGURE 22;
resist applied twisting loads. FIGURE 24, Sheet 5, is a fragmentary horizontal sec
Other objects of the invention will become apparent tion through one belt;
from a reading of the following description of a rep FIGURE 25, Sheet *6, is a fragmentary elevation of the
resentative embodiment, the appended claims, and the ac dome structure equipped with ?ns serving as vortex gen
companying drawings, in which: erators for dissipating strong air currents which might
FIGURE 1, Sheet 1, is an elevation of a dome struc otherwise cause too strong a wind pressure to be exerted
ture embodying the invention; on the dome; and
FIGURE 2, Sheet 2, is a fragmentary top plan view; FIGURE 26, Sheet 6, is a fragmentary enlarged scale
FIGURE 3, Sheet 3, is a plan view of a sheet material perspective view showing the attachment of ?ns to the
strip from which a belt of face linked tetrahedral modules dome structure.
is to be formed, fold lines being shown in dash lines; This invention is illustrated as being embodied in a
FIGURE 4, Sheet 3, is a top perspective view of the dome structure DS formed of modular components and
strip shown in FIGURE 3 after folding has been started; supported on a foundation F of any suitable construc
FIGURE 5, Sheet 3, is a perspective view of the strip 60 tion, for example concrete or masonry.
after further folding; The dome structure DS is in the general shape of a
FIGURE 6, Sheet 3 is a perspective View of the strip portion of a sphere, somewhat less than a hemisphere, the
in its ?nally folded form; bottom or base of the structure DS being in a horizontal
FIGURE 7, Sheet 6, is a perspective view schematical plane spaced somewhat above the sphere equator, that
ly indicating a ?rst set of rolls for notching the edges is being above the horizontal diametral plane through
of the strip as shown in FIGURE 3; the sphere. In the illustrative embodiment, the horizontal
FIGURE 8, Sheet 6, is a perspective view of a set of plane containing the bottom of the structure DS is spaced
rolls for partially folding the strip to the form shown above the sphere equator such a distance that a radius
in FIGURE 4; of the sphere passing through the dome structure at the
FIGURE 9, Sheet 6, is a separated or exploded view 70 periphery of its base is at an angle of thirty degrees to
illustrating end attachment of the opposite ends of a sin the horizontal diametral plane of the sphere. This rela
gle strip forming a modular belt, or the end attachment tionship, although applying to the illustrative embodi
 3,439,460 4
3
ment, need not necessarily be followed or used in other The apices of the alternate modules AM and the in
constructions embodying the invention. tervening modules 1M point respectively in opposite di
The dome structure DS is constituted broadly by a rections, that is relatively upwardly and downwardly in
plurality of superimposed and connected modular belts vertical plane great circles of the sphere.
B1, B2-B14, there being fourteen such belts, beginning It is to be noted that the edge 2a of the second face 2
at the thirty degree line at the base of the structure and of the alternate module AM is the same as the edge 6a
continuing upwardly to the seventy-two degree level where of the third face ‘6 of the adjacent intervening module
the structure is capped by an assembly C of modules C1, IM, these edges 2a and 6a being along a common fold
C2—C9, etc., and a central ring R. line between the faces 2 and ‘6 of adjacent modules AM
Each belt B1, B2, etc., is formed of strip sheet mate 10 and IM. Similarly, the edge 3a of the third face 3 of the
rial, e.g., sheet metal such as aluminum or other. Where alternate module AM is the same as the edge 5a of the
bending or folding machinery and working area are suf second face 5 of the adjacent intervening module IM, the
ficient and where the dome is not so large as to require edges 3a and 5a being along the fold line between the
belts of prohibitively large peripheral extent, belts may faces 3 and 5.
be constituted by a single strip of sheet material folded Strips for forming the belts or belt sections may be
and bent as hereinafter described. However, in many in prepared in any suitable way, and conveniently the initial
stances the size of the structure and the available manu formation of strips is accomplished by the use of rolls.
facturing equipment and space are such that it is con FIGURE 7 shows schematically a set of preliminary
venient to form at least certain of the belts of a plural forming rolls PR through which a strip is passed merely
ity of belt portions joined end-to-end. to form notches N in the strip edges to facilitate sub
Structures according to the invention are importantly sequent folding, and to provide clearance for receiving
characterized by a particular formation of tetrahedral securing hubs described hereinafter. The upper roll
modules in each belt, making for most efficient use of shown in FIGURE 7 is formed with a number of de
the material and producing a readily assembled, durable pressions 7 and the lower roll is formed with projections
structure capable of supporting itself and applied load 8 adapted to enter the depressions 7 so as to punch out
without requiring additional supporting framework. The strip edge material to provide the notches N. FIGURE 3
modules in each belt are linked facially as distinguished shows the condition of the strip after it has passed through
from being linked marginally, each module conforming the rolls PR with the notches having been formed but
to the shape of a tetrahedron. without folding having been started, the dash lines in
FIGURES 3-6 illustrate the formation of a modular FIGURE 3 merely indicating the location of lines along
belt section, details of the belt section being shown also which folds are to be made during subsequent operations.
in FIGURES 9-13. The lines of folding the initially flat Folding of the strip shown in FIGURE 3 is started by
strip to form the face linked tetrahedral modules are passing the strip through a pair of folding rolls FR shown
shown in dash lines in FIGURE 3. FIGURES 4, 5 and in FIGURE 8. The peripheries of the rolls FR are formed
6 show progressive steps in the folding operation. As 35 with projections adapted to mesh with one another and
shown in FIGURES 4, 5 and 6, a belt section in accord which are so shaped as to start the folding along the
ance with the invention includes an annular succession dash lines shown in FIGURE 3 so that when the strip
or repeating series of alternate modules generally des has passed through the rolls FR, the strip will have the
ignated AM and intervening modules generally designated partially folded form shown in FIGURE 4. The fold
IM. 40. lines having been established by the rolls FR, the folding
Each alternate module AM is of tetrahedral form hav into the ?nal modular form shown in FIGURE 6 is car
ing one open face and three closed faces ll, 2 and 3. The ried out by any suitable sheet material working procedure
?rst closed face 1 has the form of an isosceles triangle well known, for example, in the sheet metal working art.
and, when in place in the dome structure, its base or As described hereinafter, the modular strips are at
lower edge 1a is substantially tangent to the general cir tached end-to-end within the same belt of modules and in
cular extent of the belt in a horizontal plane. The second superimposed belt relationship. In the illustrative em
closed face 2 is bent to extend at an angle to the plane bodiment, the attachment is effected by means including
of the ?rst closed face 1 from one other edge 11) of the edges or ?anges formed integrally with the modules.
face 1. The third closed face 3 of the module AM is bent These edges or flanges are delineated in the strip length
to extend at an angle to the plane of the ?rst face 1 shown in FIGURE 3 by dash lines 9 and 10 adjacent to
from the third edge 1c of the ?rst face 1. The fourth the longitudinal edges of the strip, and by the notches N.
face of the alternate tetrahedral module AM, as formed As will be seen from consideration of FIGURE 3 in con
from the strip, is open and is delineated by the edge 1a nection with FIGURES 4, 5 and ‘6, individual ?anges are
of the ?rst face 1 and edges 2a and 311 respectively of formed on module parts according to the following tab
the second face 2 and the third face 3. While the ?rst ulation:
closed face 1 is in the form of an isosceles triangle, the Alternate modules AM
second and third faces 2 and 3 are asymmetrical triangles.
Each of the intervening modules IM is also of tetra Module part: Flange
hedral form having one open face and three closed faces First closed face 1 _______________________ ._ f1
4, 5 and 6. The ?rst closed face 4- is shaped as an isos 60 Second closed face 2 _____________________ __ f2
celes triangle and, when the module IM is in place in Third closed face 3 ______________________ __ f3
the dome structure, one edge 4a of the face 4 is sub Intervening modules IM
stantially tangent to the belt, that is substantially tangent Module part: Flange
to the generally circular extent of the belt in a horizontal
First closed face 4 _______________________ __ f4
plane. The second closed face 5 extends at an angle to
Second closed face 5 _____________________ __ f5
the plane of the ?rst face 4- from one other edge 4b of
Third closed face 6 ______________________ __ f6
the ?rst face 4. The third closed face 6 extends at an
angle to the plane of the ?rst closed face 4 from the re When end or terminal portions of modular strips are
maining edge 40 of the latter. While the ?rst face 4 is to be connected to one another in the same belt, either
in the shape of an isosceles triangle, the faces 5 and 6 because of using more than one modular strip in the same
are shaped as asymmetrical triangles. The fourth face belt or because of joining the terminal ends of the same
of the tetrahedral module IM, as formed from the strip strip in one belt, terminal ends of a strip or strips to be
material, is open and is delineated by the edge 4a of the joined are prepared and preliminarily positioned as shown
?rst face 4 and edges 5a and 6a respectively of the sec in FIGURE 9. The strip part at the left in FIGURE 9
ond face 5 and third face 6. ' is the right terminal end portion of a strip which is altered
 3,439,460
5
by cutting along the edge 2a-6a which will be recalled notch N so that the hub shank halves 12a and 1212 ex
to be the common fold line between the second face 2 of tend along opposite sides of a set of joined ?ange pairs
a module AM and the third face 6 of a module IM. This f2, f3 and f5, f6, the hub shank halves embracing these
leaves the extreme terminal end as being constituted by ?ange pairs. The collar 15 is brought up against the outer
the second face 2 of the module AM at the left in FIG ends of the joined or sandwiched ?anges. A wing nut WN
URE 9. The strip portion at the right has the left end of is screwed onto the threaded section 13 of the hub from
a modular strip altered by cutting along the edge 3a~5a inside the dome structure, thus drawing the hub halves
which is the common fold line between the third face 3 of together and clamping the ?ange sandwich f2, f3, f5, f6.
the module AM and the second face 5 of the adjacent The Wing nut WN will also bear against the inner ends of
module IM. This cutting leaves the terminal end of the the sandwiched ?anges, and the soulder 14 will limit the
strip portion at the left in FIGURE 9 constituted by the 10 screwing in of the nut WN so as to avoid crumpling the
third face 3 of the terminal module. ?anges. Rivets 19 are passed through the hub shank and
As shown‘ in FIGURE 9, the terminal end 2 of the the intervening set of sandwiched ?ange pairs for sup
strip section shown at the left has its ?ange f2 closed plementing the clamping action of the hub halves and
upon, that is in face-to-fa-ce contact with the ?ange f3 thus still further securing the ?anges together.
in the same module AM. However, the terminal strip por As shown in FIGURES 15 and 16, the lowermost belt
tion at the right in FIGURE 9 has its contiguous ?anges B1 of the modular dome structure is supported on the
f2 and f3 spread or slightly separated. Joining of the two foundation F with provision for expansion and contrac
strip ends is effected by moving the strip end at the left tion resulting, for example, from temperature changes
of FIGURE 9 in the direction of the arrow X so as to
slide the mutually contacting ?anges f2 and f3 between and applied loads. The foundation F is equipped with
the separated ?anges f2 and f3 of the strip part at the metallic ?sh plates FP having inclined grooves 2% which
receive similarly inclined hubs H at the bottom of the
right. In effect, the pair of mutually contacting ?anges f2 lowermost belt B1. The hubs H at the bottom of the belt
and f3 of the left-hand section are sandwiched between
B1 can slide in the inclined grooves 20 to accommodate
the pair of ?anges f2 and f3 of the right-hand section. expansion or contraction of the bottom of the dome struc
The ?rst closed faces 1 of the end modules AM will then
lie ?at against each other as will the second closed faces
ture. As is clearly shown in FIGURE 16, each hub H
at the bottom of the belt B1 clamps only a pair of ?anges
2 and the third closed faces 3 of the respective end
modules. The end modules in this nested relation may be
f5 and f6, there being no ?anges f2, ]‘3 at the bottom of
the dome structure.
secured together in any suitable manner, as by rivets Depending upon anticipated load conditions, additional
passed through holes 11, ‘and by other means described circumferential stress sustaining or reinforcement may be
hereinafter. provided, especially in the lower part of the dome struc
Attachment of vertically adjacent belts to one another ture. In a typical case, the circumferential reinforcement
is elfected in part by interconnection of spaced pairs of may be provided from the dome structure base, that is
contacting ?anges f2 and f3 projecting upwardly from 35 at the bottom’ of the lowest modular belt B1 at thirty
the top of a lower belt, e.g., the belt B1 in FIGURE 10, degrees above the sphere equator, to a level at forty-?ve
and pairs of slightly separated ?anges f5 and f6 spaced degrees above the sphere equator. Preferably, this addi
along the bottom of the next upper belt B2. FIGURE 10 tional reinforcement is provided by ?exible tensioning
illustrates the positioning of portions of vertically ad members such as wires or cables shown at T in FIG
jacent belts B1 and B2 just prior to being brought to 40 URES 11 and 13 as being passed through holes 17 in the
gether in assembly and secured to one another. The up projections 16 of the hubs H and extending circumferen
wardly extending ?anges f2 and f3 of each pair of such tially completely around the dome structure. The mem
?anges are in close contacting relation, and are aligned bers T may be tensioned by any suitable means and
with downwardly extending pairs of ?anges f5 and f6 secured in tensioned condition.
which are slightly spread apart to provide clearance. In The dome structure above the modular belts Bl-B14 is
assembling, the belt B2 is lowered onto the belt vB1 so constituted by the cap structure C including the ring R.
that the ?ange pairs f2, f3 extending upwardly from the The upper dome structure C, R is constructed and con
belt B1 are received in the clearances between the ?anges nected to the underlying belt structure Bil-B14 as shown
f5 and f6 extending downwardly from the belt B2. In particularly in FIGURES 2 and 17-22. The cap C in
this manner, the ?ange pairs f2, f3 are sandwiched be cludes a plurality of modules C1, C2, C3 . . . etc., of
tween the ?anges of the ?ange pairs f5, f6. The sand greater length on a chord of the sphere in a vertical plane
wiches f2, f3, f5 and f6 are then secured as explained than the modules in the belts B1—B14. Additionally, the
hereinafter. cap modules are shaped differently and are connected
Securing of the belts B1 and B2 together is effected, differently from the shaping and the connection of the
in part, by forming a lock seam joint between each ?ange modules AM and IM in the underlying belts. Each cap
f1 of an alternate module AM and a mating ?ange f4 of module is of open face tetrahedral form and comprises
a ‘vertically adjacent module IM. One suitable seam for a bottom face 21 in the shape of an isosceles triangle.
mation is shown in FIGURE 12, being a conventional Extending at an angle to the bottom face 21 of each cap
sheet metal working seam. In using such a construction, module are side faces 22, 23, both shaped as asymmetrical
part of the edge of the ?ange fl is advantageously trimmed
triangles, the faces 21, 22 and 23 thus producing a trough
off so that before forming the scam the ?ange f1 will be like tetrahedral structure,
more narrow than the ?ange f4. As shown in FIGURES 20 and 21, each cap module
Vertically adjacent belts are additionally secured to face 22 has a rolled edge 22a, and each module face 23
gether by holding means, e.g., hubs H, one of which is has an inverted U-shaped channel 23a which opens down
shown in detail in FIGURE 13, the hubs H also serving 65 wardly. The side faces 22 and 23 are close to each other
for other purposes explained hereinafter. As shown in adjacent to the ring R and diverge as they extend from
FIGURE 14, each hub I-I comprises a split shank having the ring.
halves or opposed sections 12a and 12b, one end of the The ring R is provided With the V-shaped seats 24 and
shank being formed with a threaded portion 13 and a projecting studs 25.
shoulder 14. The other or outer end of the hub has a In assembling the cap structure C, R, adjacent walls
?xed collar 15 and a projecting stub 16 provided with a 22 and 23 of adjacent modules C1, C2, etc., are con
nected as indicated in FIGURES 18, 20 and 21, from
transverse hole 17 and a threaded axial opening 18. which it is apparent that the U-shaped channel 23w at
As shown in FIGURES 11, 15 and 23, a hub H pro the top of the face 23 of the module C2 shown at the
jects from the outside of the dome structure through a right in FIGURE 21 is fitted over the rolled edge 22a
 3,439,460 8
7
at the top of the face 22 of the module C1 at the left in B2. A bottom ‘part SB of a shingle S is ?tted over an
FIGURE 21. If desired, the joint between the channel 231; intervening module in the belt B1, and the shingle ?anges
and the rolled edge 22a may be cemented or otherwise S3 and S4 are lapped over the ?anges S2 and S1 in the
secured. half shingles ST in the lower belt B1. The top part SB
The converging ends of the module faces 2243 are of this shingle S is fitted over an alternate module AM
placed into the seats 24 and the parts are manipulated in the belt B2, the ?anges S1 and S2 of this shingle S
so as to cause the studs 25 to project into the channels 23:: being respectively attached to faces 5 and 6 of modules
and the rolled edges 22a, as indicated in FIGURE 17. IM in the belt B2. Full shingles S are applied in this
This is permitted by the somewhat ?exible nature of the manner from the belt B2 upwardly to the belt B13 with
sheet material. 10
the lower ends of shingles in upper belts overlapping the
The faces 21 of the cap modules are provided with upper ends of the shingles in belts immediately below.
?anges 121 which. together with the ?anges M- on the The shingles are secured in place additionally by screws
uppermost intervening modules IM, are secured, e.g., by 26 which pass through apertured bosses S5 and into the
rivets, to an annular collar piece CP inserted at the threaded holes 18 in projections 16 of the hubs H as
circular joint between the cap C and belt B14 as indi indicated in FIGURE 23, reference being made also to
cated in FIGURE 23, for anchorage of the cap module FIGURE 15.
?ange f21 and the belt B14 ?anges M. The ends of the The intervening modules IM in the belt B14 at the
converging faces 22 and 23 of the modules C1, C2, etc. top of the belt structure are covered by bottom shingle
have ?anges f22 riveted to the ring R. Fenestration may parts SB, the ?anges S3 and S4 of which are turned down
be provided within the ring R. 20 for attachment to the faces 3 and 2 of alternate modules
In any construction in which stress and load considera in the belt B14.
tions may make it advisable to provide circumferential In addition to closing the respective fourth faces of
reinforcement adjacent to the joint between the upper the tetrahedral modules AM and IM to present a con
most belt, such as ‘B14, and the cap structure, a tension tinuous outer dome surface, the shingles S and shingle
ing cable or other ?exible tensioning means may be pro halves SB and ST serve to reinforce the modular structure.
vided at that joint. For this purpose, a series of plugs P The multiple belt modular structure B1—B14 provides
may be connected to the dome structure at circumferen a plurality of trusses extending along the curved heavy
tially spaced intervals around the joint between the cap C lines L1 and L2 in FIGURES 1 and 2, the truss structures
and uppermost modular belt. As shown in FIGURES 19, being more particularly illustrated in FIGURES 15, 22
20 and 21, a plug P comprises a stern I31 which ?ts into and 23. Each truss line L1 passes from the bottom of
the rolled edge 22a at a joint between two cap modules the belt structure toward the top along a face 3 of a
and a shoulder P2 which limits the insertion of the stem module AM and a contiguous face 5 of an adjacent
P1 into the rolled edge 22a‘. On its outer end, the plug P module IM in the belt B1, then up along a face 3 of a
is provided with two spaced ?ngers P3. A tensioning cable module AM and a contiguous face 5 of an adjacent
or the like is inserted between the ?ngers P3 of the plugs module IM in the belt 2, and so on up to the top of the
P all around the periphery and is drawn tight and secured belt structure, passing throughout along adjoining faces
under tension. Extension of the tensioning member T 3 and 5 of contiguous modules AM and IM in successive
between the ?ngers of one plug P is shown in FIG belts Bit-B14. Thus, the alternate module faces 1 and 3
URE 19. and the intervening module faces 4 and 5, together with
The construction thus far described is self-sustaining the associated hubs H, provide a spiral truss extending
and capable of bearing substantial applied loads. How along each line L1. It will be understood that although
ever, this structure is constituted in part by tetrahedral only two lines L1 are indicated in FIGURE 1, there are
modules AM and IM having open faces at the outside of other similarly spiralled truss lines extending completely
the dome, the latter therefore having a multiplicity of around the belt structure. In the form shown, the axis
depressions or pockets on its outer surface. It is desirable ‘ of each hub H is coincident with a radius of the sphere,
from the standpoint of appearance that these open faces and the length of the hub is a measurement of the depth
be covered or closed so as to present a substantially or length of the truss rib.
smooth outer spherical surface. To this end, a plurality A plurality of similar but reversely spiralled trusses
of shingles or shingle-like plate-like members S as shown extend along the lines represented at L2 in FIGURE 1.
in FIGURES 13, 15, 22, 23 and 26 are applied to the 50 Each line ‘L2 extends along faces 2 of alternate modules
part of the dome structure constituted by the belts AM and respectively contiguous faces 6 of intervening
Bil-B14. modules IM in each belt.
With reference to FIGURE 13, a closure means com Each truss extending in one spiral direction crosses
ponent or shingle S is of diamond shape having ?anged over thirteen trusses of reversely spiralled directional
sides S1, S2, S3 and S4, and an apertured boss S5 at its extent and is secured to each such reversely spiralled
bottom point at the convergence of the ?anges S3 and S4. truss at thirteen points by hubs H. In the illustrative em—
A full or complete shingle S is employed for covering bodiment, the depth of each module at the associated
certain modules in the belts B2-B13, whereas half shingles hub is one-half the length of the horizontal edge of the
are employed for covering certain modules in the belts connected faces 1 and 4 of the modules AM and IM.
B1 and B14. These half shingles are provided by cutting 60 The reversely spiralled truss structure provides a com
a complete shingle S along its horizontal minor axis S6 plex scissors-type truss system which is capable of eifec
as indicated in FIGURE 13, thus providing a bottom ti_vely resisting twisting loads imposed onto the dome
half shingle SB and a top half shingle ST. structure in any direction.
Top half shingles ST are used for covering and closing When a dome structure according to the present inven
the alternate modules AM in the lowermost belt B1. Each tion is to be erected in a locality where it may encounter
shingle half ST is ?tted over a module AM in the belt unusual or substantial wind loads, its outer surfac prefer
B1 so as to close the fourth face of the tetrahedral module, ably is provided with means for creating localized air
and the inturned ?anges S1 and S2 of the shingle ST are turbulence so as to dissipate steady, concentrated Wind
secured to faces 5 and \6 respectively of the intervening pressure which might otherwise constitute a serious
modules IM on each side of the covered module AM in hazard. As shown in FIGURES 25 and 26, a plurality of
the belt B1. The ?anges may be secured to the faces 5 vortex generators 27 are secured to the outer surface of
and 6 by blind rivets and/ or cement. the dome structure in spaced relation on the forty-?ve
Full shingles S are applied to cover the modules 1M degree and ?fty-one degree lines above the equator of
of the belt B1 and the alternate modules AM of the belt the sphere. Each vortex generator 27 is in the form of
 3,439,460
9 10
an apertured ?n having a ?ange 27a adapted to ?t 3. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 1 in
over a projection 16 on a hub H and to be secured in which said modules respectively comprise a ?rst face
place by a screw 26. " having an edge substantially tangent to the belt; and sec
It is apparent that domes constructed as explained in ond and third faces extending respectively from the other
detail in the foregoing may be of different sizes. By way 5 edges of said ?rst face and each at an angle to said ?rst
of example only, some of the dimensional relations of face, the fourth face being delineated by one edge of each
the illustrative embodiment will now be set forth. The of said ?rst, second and third faces.
illustrative dome structure is based on a diameter of 4. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 3 in
230.94 feet at the sphere equator and a diameter of two which said ?rst face has the form of an isosceles triangle.
hundred feet at the bottom of the belt B1. The belts 5. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 4 in
B1-B14 together extend from thirty degrees to seventy 10 which the modules are in a repeating series around the
two degrees above the equator, thus covering an extent belt, in which said ?rst faces are in the form of isosceles
of forty-two degrees on a vertical plane great circle of triangles, and in which the apices of said ?rst faces of
the sphere. Below the thirty degree line is the foundation adjacent modules point respectively in substantially op
F. The dome structure above the seventy~two degree line 15 posite directions.
is constituted by the cap C and ring R. 6. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 5 in
Each belt extends substantially three degrees in the which the apices of said c?rst faces of alternate modules
vertical plane great circle, the several belts and modules point toward the top of the dome, and the apices of said
thus being of substantially the same height. However, ?rst faces of intervening modules point toward the base
since the several belts B1-B14 all include the same num 20 of the dome.
ber of modules AM and IM, speci?cally two hundred 7. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 3 in
and forty modules in the illustrative embodiment, the which each of the second and third faces of each module
modules AM and IM decrease in circumferential extent is positioned in face-to-face laminate relation to one of
from the belt B1 to the belt B14. There are one hundred the second and third faces of an adjacent module in the
and twenty cap modules C1, C2, etc. 25 succession of modules.
The diamond-shaped shingles S are su?iciently large to 8. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 7 in
overlap the associated modules and are also of substan which said face-to-face positioned faces of adjacent mod
tially uniform height equivalent to 2 three degree radians ules are secured together in contacting face-to-face en
in a vertical plane great circle, but decrease in width on gagement with each other.
their minor axes S6, indicated in FIGURES 13, from the 30 9. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 1 in
belt B2 to the belt B14. which said belt comprises a unitary piece of sheet ma
Further and somewhat speci?c guidance for construct terial constituting a plurality of said modules.
ing a geodesic dome according to the illustrative embodi Ill. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 3 in
ment is provided by the following table listing dimensional which said belt comprises a unitary piece of sheet material
relationships: 35 constituting a plurality of said modules.

Degrees Altitude of Width of strip

covered by Radian in Hub (14) module faces (Figure 3)
Belt belt on Radian feet at depth, i.e. 1 and 4 in to provide
No. vertical in feet bottom depth of planes of stock for
great of b t truss rib these faces, ?anges
circle inches i1—f6, inches
30~33 5. 236 100 2. 6 79. 2 84
33-36 5. 070 96.85 2. 5 78. 5 84
36-39 4. 89 93. 41 2. 4 78. 0 84
39-42 4. 70 89.74 2. 35 77. 5 84
4245 4. 49 85. 81 2. 25 77.0 84
45-48 4. 275 81. 65 2. 1 76. 5 84
48-51 4. 045 77. 25 2. 0 76. 0 84
51-54 3.80 72. 66 1. 9 75. 5 80
54-57 3. 55 67. 88 1. 75 76. 0 80
57-60 3. 29 62. 89 1. 65 74. 4 80
60-63 3. 05 57. 73 1. 50 74. 0 80
63-66 2. 74 52. 42 1. 37 73. 7 80
66-69 2. 46 46. 97 1. 23 73. 0 80
69-72 2. 16 41. 38 1. 08 72. 8 80

The foregoing values are based on construction of the 11. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 5 in
belt section Bl-B14 from sheet aluminum of .036‘ inch 55 which said belt comprises a unitary piece of sheet ma
thickness. terial constituting a plurality of said modules.
Dome structures in accordance with the invention are 12. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 7 in
characterized importantly by face-linked tetrahedral mod which said belt comprises a unitary piece of sheet ma
ules so coordinated that a light structure comprising tri terial constituting a plurality of said modules.
angular subdivisions providing a built-in truss system is 60 13. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 5 in
capable of withstanding heavy loads. which said modules are of sheet material and in which
The construction disclosed is preferred, other than as to said second and third faces of each module have mutually
speci?c numerical dimensions which are exemplary only, contiguous edges extending from the apex of said tri
but it is intended that the disclosure be illustrative rather angular ?rst face and at an angle to said ?rst face, said
than de?nitive, the invention being de?ned in the claims. 65 contiguous edges being secured together.
I claim: ‘
14. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 13 in
1. In a geodesic dome, a substantially horizontal belt which the apices of said ?rst faces of alternate modules
comprising an annular succession of adjacent face-linked point toward the top of the dome, and. the apices of said
tetrahedral modules the faces of which are triangular, first faces of intervening modules point toward the bot
two triangular faces of each alternate module in said suc 70 tom of the dome.
cession of modules being in face-to-face contact respec 15. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 3 in
tively with two triangular faces of intervening modules on which said belt comprises a unitary strip of sheet ma~
opposite sides of the included alternate module. terial having, in each module, angle bends intervening
2. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 1 in respectively between two edges of said ?rst 'face and one
which said modules are of sheet material. 75 edge of each of said second and third faces.
 3,439,460 12
ll
16. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 3 in 27. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 26 in
cluding, in each module, a member secured to the module which there is a plurality of sets of such secured-together
for closing the fourth face thereof. pairs, and in which, in each set of secured-together pairs,
17. In a geodesic dome, a plurality of adjacent substan one pair is sandwiched between the secured-together edges
tially horizontal belts in superimposed relation to each UK of the other pair.
other, each of said belts comprising an annular succession 28. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 26
of adjacent face-linked tetrahedral modules the faces of including, for each set of two secured-together pairs, a
which are triangular, two triangular faces of each alter hub which secures together in laminate all of the four
nate module in said succession of modules being in face edges constituting the set.
toJface contact respectively with two triangular faces of 29. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 28 in
intervening modules on opposite sides of the included which said hubs have opposed sections which are drawn
alternate module; and means securing together the mod toward each other to clamp the secured-together pairs
ules of adjacent belts. therebetween.
18. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 17 in 3t). Geodesic dome structure according to claim 28
which said modules are of sheet material. 15 including, in each module, a member closing the fourth
19. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 18 in face thereof, said hubs respectively having outer ends at
which said modules respectively comprise a ?rst face hav said fourth faces of the modules; and means for securing
ing a ?rst edge substantially tangent to the associated belt; said members to said outer ends of said hubs and to said
and second and third faces extending respectively from modules.
two other edges of said ?rst face and each at an angle to 20 31. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 17 in
said ?rst face, the fourth face being delineated by one which said modules respectively comprise a ?rst triangu
edge of each of said ?rst, second and third faces, said ?rst lar face having a ?rst edge substantialy tangent to the
edge of said ?rst face of each module in one belt lying associated belt; and second and third triangular faces
parallel to and alongside of and being secured to said extending respectively from two other edges of said ?rst
?rst edge of said ?rst face of a module in an adjacent belt. triangular face and each at an angle to said ?rst triangular
20. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 19 in face, the fourth face also being triangular and being de
which, in each belt, said modules are in a repeating series lineated by one edge of each of said ?rst, second and third
around the belt, in which said ?rst faces are in the form triangular faces, said ?rst edge of said ?rst triangular
of isosceles triangles, and in which the apices of said face of each module in one belt lying parallel to and
?rst faces of adjacent modules point respectively in sub alongside of the ?rst edge of the ?rst triangular face of a
stantially opposite directions, said ?rst edge of said ?rst module in an adjacent belt, the second and third triangu
face of each module being the side of said isosceles tri lar faces of each module converging to mutually con
angle opposite the apex thereof. tiguous and aligned edges which, along a meeting line,
21. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 29 in are also contigous to and aligned with the mutually con
which, in each belt, the apices of said ?rst faces of alter tiguous and aligned edges of the converging second and
nate modules point toward the top of the dome, and the third triangular faces of a module in an adjacent belt, said
apices of said ?rst faces of intervening modules point to structure further including holding means for securing to
ward the base of the dome. gether the four aligned contiguous edges which meet each
22. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 21 in other along each of said meeting lines.
which the modules in one belt which have apices which 40 32. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 31 in
point toward the top of the dome have their said ?rst cluding closure means closing the fourth face of each
edges of their said ?rst faces secured respectively to the module; and ‘means for attaching said closure means to
said ?rst edges of the said ?rst faces of modules, in an said holding means.
adjacent belt, which have apices which point toward the 33. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 31 in
base of the dome. cluding diamond shaped plate-like members closing the
23. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 17 in 2 fourth faces of each two modules in adjacent belts
which said modules respectively comprise a ?rst face which have their respective said ?rst edges lying parallel to
having a ?rst edge substantially tangent to the associated and alongside each other. i
belt; and second and third faces extending respectively 34. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 33
from two other edges of said ?rst face, the fourth face in which said diamond shaped plate~like members are
disposed on said structure as shingles, those closing
being delineated by one edge of each of said ?rst, second
and third faces, said ?rst edge of said ?rst face of each module fourth faces in higher belts lapping over those
module in one belt lying parallel to and alongside of said closing module fourth faces in adjacent lower belts.
?rst edge of said ?rst face of a module in an adjacent 35. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 20
belt, and in which each of the second and third faces of in which said module ?rst faces are in the form of
each module is positioned in face-to-face laminate rela isosceles triangles of substantially equal extent in succes
tion to one of the second and third faces of an adjacent sive belts from the base of the dome toward the top there
of'but which are progressively more narrow around the
module in the same belt. dome from one belt to the next belt from base to top
24. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 23 in
which said face-to-face positioned faces of adjacent mod of the dome.
ules are secured together in contacting face-to-face lam 36. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 19 in
which said module ?rst faces are in the form of isosceles
inate engagement with each other. triangles, said structure further including at least one
25. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 17 in
which each said belt comprises a unitary piece of sheet ?exible tension band intervening between adjacent ‘belts,
material constituting a plurality of the modules in that passing around the dome structure and being connected
thereto where said ?rst edges of said ?rst faces of modules
belt. in adjacent belts are secured to each other.
26. Geodesic dome structure according to claim Ztl in
37. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 35
which said modules are of sheet material, in which said in which the belts comprising modules of substantially
second and third faces of each module have mutually
contiguous edges extending from the apex of the asso equal extent from base toward top terminate at a level
below the top of the dome, and in which there is a cap
ciated triangular ?rst face and at an angle to said ?rst face,
above said level comprising modules which are of greater
in which said contiguous edges are secured together as
a pair, and in which such pairs of secured-together edges extent from base toward top than the modules below said
of modules in adjacent belts are themselves secured to level.
38. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 19
gether as a set of pairs.
 13
3,439,460
14
in which said module ?rst faces are in the form of 40. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 39
isosceles triangles, and in which said belts terminate at in‘which said second and third faces of said modules have
a level ‘below the top of the dome, said structure further mutually contiguous edges meeting each other in pairs
including a dome top member at the top of the highest along said rib line, in which each such pair in an alternate
of said belts and to which the modules of said highest 5 module in one belt engages such a pair in an intervening
belt are connected.
module in an adjacent belt, and in which said means for
39. In a geodesic dome, a plurality of substantially securing comprises means for clamping together each
horizontal belts in superimposed relation to each other, two engaging pairs.
each of said belts comprising a succession of adjacent 41. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 39
face-linked tetrahedral modules, said modules respective in which said means for securing extend along said rib
ly comprising ‘a ?rst face in the form of an isosceles 10 lines to provide reinforced truss ribs.
triangle and having a ?rst edge substantially tangent to 42. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 39
the associated belt, and second and third triangular faces in which said belts respectively comprise a unitary metal
extending respectively from two other edges of said ?rst strip providing a plurality of said modules, and in which’
face and each at an angle to said ?rst face, the fourth 15 said second and third faces of said modules are in the
face being delineated by one edge of each of said ?rst, form of asymmetrical triangles.
second and third faces, the modules in each belt being in 43. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 39
a repeating series of alternate and intervening modules, in which a first plurality of said trusses are spiralled in
each alternate module having its apex which is opposite one direction and ‘a second plurality of said trusses are
its said ?rst edge of its said ?rst face pointing toward the 20 spiralled in the reverse direction and cross over the
dome top, and each intervening module having its apex trusses of said ?rst plurality of trusses.
which is opposite its said ?rst edge of its said ?rst face 44. Geodesic dome structure according to claim 17
pointing toward ‘the dome bottom, the said ?rst edges of including a plurality of wind vortex generators on the out
said ?rst faces of alternate modules in one belt adjoining side of said ‘belts.
the said ?rst edges of said ?rst faces in intervening 25
modules in an adjacent belt, said second and third faces References Cited
of the respective modules converging upon and meeting
each other along a rib line extending from the aforesaid UNITED STATES PATENTS
apex of the ‘associated ?rst face and at an angle to said 2,736,072 2/1956 Woods ____________ __ 52-81
?rst face; and means for securing together the meeting 30 2,768,432 10/1956 Hines ___________ __ 52-»81 X
portions of said second and third faces of modules in adja 2,769,409 11/1956 Rutten _____________ _.. 52-81
cent belts along said rib lines, the so secured-together 2,982,290 5/1961 Hunziker _________ __ 52-—81 X
modules providing a plurality of trusses extending spiral 3,094,708 6/1963 Caldwell __________ u- 52-»81 X
ly from the base toward the top of the dome, each of
said trusses comprising edges of said second and third 35 JOHN E. MURTAGH, Primary Examiner.
faces of modules in the ascending belts and the rib line
secured-together meeting portions of said module second US. Cl. X.R.
and third faces. 52--173