Forms and Classification of Space Truss Structures
Currently, there are 15 common types of space truss structures, which can be categorized into four main classes.
1.Space Trusses Composed of Planar Truss Systems
Depending on the number and orientation of the planar truss systems, they are further divided into four types:
(1) Two-way orthogonal rectangular grid
(2) Two-way orthogonal diagonal grid
(3) Two-way skewed diagonal grid
(4) Three-way grid
2.Space Truss Structures Composed of Square Pyramids
Based on the arrangement of the pyramid units and the orientation of the connecting top chords, they are further divided into six types:
(1) Orthogonal square pyramid grid
(2) Orthogonal partially removed square pyramid grid
(3) Skewed square pyramid grid
(4) Checkerboard square pyramid grid
(5) Star-shaped square pyramid grid
(6) Unidirectional folded-plate grid (also known as folded-plate structure)
3.Space Truss Structures Composed of Triangular Pyramids (Tetrahedrons)
Based on the arrangement of the triangular pyramid units and the method of connecting the top chords, they are further divided into four types:
(1) Triangular pyramid (tetrahedron) grid
(2) Partially removed triangular pyramid grid (Type Ⅰ)
(3) Partially removed triangular pyramid grid (Type Ⅱ)
(4) Honeycomb triangular pyramid grid
4.Space Truss Structures Composed of Hexagonal Pyramids
This category includes space trusses where the primary repeating unit is a hexagonal pyramid. While less common than square or triangular pyramid-based systems, such configurations may be used for specific architectural or structural requirements.
5.Beyond the aforementioned four major categories and 15 specific types of space truss structures, many new derived forms have emerged. These include:
Composite space truss structures (e.g., hybrid systems combining different grid types)
Hybrid space truss structures:
Prestressed space trusses (incorporating tensile elements to enhance load-bearing capacity)
Cable-stayed space trusses (using cables to support the grid)
Suspended space trusses (where the grid is hung from primary supports)
Other innovative space truss structures:
Vierendeel space trusses (rigid-jointed frameworks without diagonal bracing)
Folded-plate space trusses (mimicking the behavior of folded plates)
Three-layer and multi-layer space trusses (enhanced depth for larger spans)
Nest-shaped space trusses (complex geometries inspired by natural forms, e.g., Bird's Nest Stadium)
