No_11_November_1969 — Page 30

Triodetic frame system is easy to erect

Above: A close-up of the connector used in triodetic construction. A mechanical joint, working on the fir-tree' principle, is made between the formed serrated ends of the individual members of the frame which are inserted into the radial matching slots of the connecting hubs. This enables loads to be transferred without welding, rivetting or bolting

Below: This model shows the Hypar roof structure using the Vickers triodetic con- struction system which gives large areas of

THE pagoda-like British Pavilion at the Second Asian Trade Fair in Tehran has attracted as much interest as the ex- hibits themselves. For the pavilion is itself a new form of building and one of the most adaptable yet constructed.

It is built on the triodetic system in simple terms, a series of triangles. The sides of the triangles are alumi- nium tubes, tapered and sealed into serrated slots in a cylindrical hub which has a central hole for a support

free floor space. It has a wide application ing bolt. Four triodetic sections form a

pyramid.

The triangles forming the pavilion

to all forms of building from factories to sports stadia

are held together solely by the serrated slots, rather like fir trees on plan, and by the holding bolt through the centre of the hub. The pavilion is simple to build and simple to demount, pack, and re-erect. The only tool needed is a rubber mallet. It is a system suitable for a great variety of uses; the build- ings can be finished in a wide range of claddings; they can be erected by unskilled labour and they cover large spans at economic cost.

Because the British Pavilion at Teh- ran is large 220 ft. by 160 ft. (67 by

Inside the spider's web of alumi-

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Far East BUILDER, November 1969

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