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TENT STRUCTURES Definition of a Tent Structure: A membrane structure pre-stressed by externally applied forces so that it is held completely taut under all anticipated load conditions. To avoid extremely high tensile forces, a membrane structure should have relatively sharp curvatures in opposite direction (Reference: The Visual Dictionary of Architecture, Ching). Purpose: The purpose of a tent structure is to provide a means of shelter that is lightweight, portable, and quick to install. Subsystems and Interactions: There are three major components (subsystems) to a tent structure:
1.) An outer membrane – The outer membrane of a tent structure covers the frame and carries the load primarily through tension (although it does carry compression also). The function of the membrane is to protect the interior from the outside conditions and to transfer the loads to the framework.
2.) The frame – The frame is what the thin outer membrane is attached to. The type of frame construction used varies between the different types of tents. The frame can consist of rigid longitudinal poles which transfer loads similar to a column, or it can consist of flexible rods that transfer loads similar to an arch.
3.) An anchorage system – The anchorage system of a tent usually consists of tabs (attached to the membrane) that are attached by hooks to the stakes. The stakes are then anchored into the ground. Some tents use ropes that are attached to the poles which are in turn anchored into the ground using stakes. Some other components of tents may be zippers that provide a non-rigid entranceway into the tent, or screens that enable a view to the outside. The interaction of the components of a tent structure usually begins with sliding the rods or poles through sleeves that are sewn on the outer membrane. In the case of larger tents, the top end to the poles, usually recessed, are slid through a reinforced hole. The
1.) An outer membrane – The outer membrane of a tent structure covers the frame and carries the load primarily through tension (although it does carry compression also). The function of the membrane is to protect the interior from the outside conditions and to transfer the loads to the framework.
2.) The frame – The frame is what the thin outer membrane is attached to. The type of frame construction used varies between the different types of tents. The frame can consist of rigid longitudinal poles which transfer loads similar to a column, or it can consist of flexible rods that transfer loads similar to an arch.
3.) An anchorage system – The anchorage system of a tent usually consists of tabs (attached to the membrane) that are attached by hooks to the stakes. The stakes are then anchored into the ground. Some tents use ropes that are attached to the poles which are in turn anchored into the ground using stakes. Some other components of tents may be zippers that provide a non-rigid entranceway into the tent, or screens that enable a view to the outside. The interaction of the components of a tent structure usually begins with sliding the rods or poles through sleeves that are sewn on the outer membrane. In the case of larger tents, the top end to the poles, usually recessed, are slid through a reinforced hole. The