Geometric Definition of Transformable Surfaces with Homogeneous ABC Reciprocal Meshes

Abstract

Reciprocal frame structures are nonhierarchical stable systems formed by elements that are simply connected to each other by tangency with no interpenetration. They are systems composed of elementary spatial self-supporting interlocking units or reciprocal nodes of mutually supporting beams placed in closed structural circuits. Those nodes can be designed as transformable by allowing the modification of the position of the tangency or supporting points. This article addresses the characterization and geometric definition of surfaces of variable geometry (bidimensional objects in three-dimensional space that can transform its geometrical form) by means of meshes, with cylindrical equal beams, arranged by the repetition of a pattern consisting of three transformable nodes of