John Prenis

Practical information by a builder on how to design and construct geodesic domes and residential shapes other than standard rectangles. Covers processes and types: Tents, tube frames, spherical membranes, skins, plastic. Complete details for a 16-foot personal dome -- 4V triacon plywood covered with cedar shingles. Can be interconnected to other domes.

Details for a 3/4 sphere on posts with convas-resin waterproofing system.

Instructions for single-handed erection, and notes on interior designs and gardens.

Chapter on "Zomes" - structures based on zonohedron, or solids that have one or usually more, bands of parallel edges circling them. The lack of triangulation requires stress resistant cures such as rigid skin, tightened joints, or extra bracing.

Ferro-cement domes are described with sufficient detail, but no design plans.

Excellent chapter on materials -- "Man is now technological" -- including Foams, using urethane , paper, cloth, teflon coated fibreglass and other coatings.

Chapter on Polyurethane explains what it is, how dangerous it is, the effects of UV, and how it is affected by dirt and moisture. Interestingly, "many people think foam must be a barrier to sound". In fact, rigid foams transmit sound well!

Shows a 24 foot diameter 15 foot high geodesic dome plan and how built. Shows and describes construction of 40 foot, 5 story dome with weather-seal and building inspection issues.

Chord factors. "Dome math is not difficult". [93] The hard work is already done and summarized. The central angles are the basis for all other figures.… (more)