Tensile Fabric Structures permit the design of exciting roof forms


Through the 1950’s the German architect Frei Otto and his associates were working on expanding his wartime study of naturally occurring shapes. Their analysis of soap bubbles, crystal formations and other forms occurring in nature convinced them that these shapes could be adapted for use in Architecture. Horst Berger discovered the mathematical relationship describing the soap bubble form. His work was instrumental in explaining the concept and accelerating the research to the point where Tensile Fabric Structures are becoming commonplace today.

Tensile Fabric Structures have been used for ages. In the earliest days, these were the simplest forms of shelters such as tent, tipis, and yurts. They became popular mobile shelters because only a few materials were needed, most easily obtained from nature.  The oldest known forms of tents are from Siberia, Alaska, Lapland, and Iceland. Since the materials used are bio-degradable, documentation of any earlier use is unknown.

Tensile Membrane Structures are so durable and long lasting, they are also extremely low maintenance. They often require little to no regular upkeep, any upkeep being required after several years. This will save money in the short term and the long run, as there will no little maintenance costs for the building owners and those responsible for upkeep.

Tensile Membrane Structures are an extremely affordable option, as the materials can often be cheap, but they can also save you money on electricity costs. Tensile membranes can help filter through natural light into a room, saving money on lighting, and can often filter and reflect much of that light, which ensures that the light that does go into the room does not bring up the temperature of the room. This can save on air conditioning and electricity costs for the owners.
 

Tensioned Fabric Structures have two main systems:  tension membrane and fabric supported.  The reliance on cables and steel framing for base supports is called a tension membrane system.  In comparison, the utilization of mechanical engineering to support the fabric with positive internal air pressure is called a fabric supported system. No matter which base system is used, a lasting protection over great lengths by using very little material is provided by tension fabric roofs.

On every continent, Tensioned Fabric Structures can be found in many different sizes and styles.  Transitioning over the years, many types have been developed and used such as temporary, permanent, air-supported, tensioned, large and small.  Membrane and fabric types can vary including PVC, PTFE fiberglass, and insulated membranes.
 
Tensile Fabric StructuresTensioned Membrane Structures can easily be configured to meet varying and specific construction code compliances. 

As many engineers, architects, and construction managers know, complex and specific construction compliance codes can either make or break a project. With tensile membranes, you can manipulate the material to fit into whatever specific construction codes that your area may have.
Fabric Structures also have an economic advantage over compression based structures. Less structural materials are needed, even with bigger, more expansive structures. A reduction in maintenance and construction costs in contrast to traditional methods have a big appeal to building owners. Structures utilizing tensile fabrics require very little maintenance or upkeep. The use of a good preventive program can reduce maintenance costs significantly in comparison to traditional costs of upkeep for traditional structures.

There is no doubt tensile Fabric Structures make a big statement. Cost effective, architecturally appealing, and environmentally safe, it is bound to reach even higher heights.

Tensile Membrane Structures are an extremely affordable option, as the materials can often be cheap, but they can also save you money on electricity costs. Tensile membranes can help filter through natural light into a room, saving money on lighting, and can often filter and reflect much of that light, which ensures that the light that does go into the room does not bring up the temperature of the room. This can save on air conditioning and electricity costs for the owners.
 

Navigate to this website for getting more information related to Tensile Membrane Structures.