initial concept sketch and recording of some important dimensions.

you can't plan too much - those cubes are EXACTLY 8x8 feet.

typical examples of space frame structures.

really fancy frames use cool threaded ball joints. the joints on really big
frames become a crucial part of the structure and need to be well designed.

scale models - just like we did in the engineering labs at Cal Poly.

1" to 1' scale. hot glue and small sticks allow fast building.

hot glue joints also flex a bit so you can see where the model is stressing
without it just snapping. the engineering instructors did this to our models
ALL the time... and then we'd go redesign them...

actually, it's pretty darn strong. that gives me confidence that I will end up with
a strong full scale design.

also kind of looks like a stealth bomber... if that's worth anything.

of course I had to go all out and build a scale PDI cube too!

and a scale "marc" also. always good to have reference.

a scale preview of what the finished piece and view should look like.

the corner column supports really took some thought. I knew they
had to be simple to build and wanted them to be simple in how they
interacted with the cube wall to support the structure. I built a full scale
cardboard prototype to actually make sure it was going to work because
it was such an important part of the design.

some photos with notes to the guy that was going to do the welding to see
what he thought of the design.

it's looking good to me and I'm happy I came up with such a simple and effective
support system.