Tensegrity Systems

Abstract

This paper is a contribution to Tensegrity Systems understanding. The first part is devoted to a clarification of definitions. Among all the definitions that are known, we suggest a first one based on the description which is given in the three main patents, filed by Emmerich, Fuller and Snelson. We submit then an “extended definition”. According to this definition, tensegrity systems can be regarded as a pure field of forces satisfying some specific conditions. A double layer grid, which fulfils this definition is described. In the second part, tensegrity systems are placed within the general category of tensile structures. It can be seen that this work paves the way to an improvement within the entire world of shapes. Finally we give an example of tensegrity system theory applied to biology and developed by D. Ingber.