Re: starplates - lumber connectors

[Ernie Aiken <wgd at gtwn dot net>]

You can build a limited number of low frequency domes with these connectors
with equally spaced attaching points, as the 4 and 6 arm Simpson type are.
Such as 2 fr. Octahedral domes shown here: http://www.gardendome.com/octa_dome_types.html
http://www.gardendome.com/tetra_dome_shade.GIF
With an 8, 6 and 4 arm connectors you could build something equal to
my Octa-Dome.
I have a feeling these would bend under weight of 2 x 4s, and 2 x 2
construction would be best for larger diameters, but I've not tried it.
You could probably use pvc pipe (or other more environmental friendly plastic)
with these some how. Of course pvc will bend so you have a limitation of
dome size.
Drawing of the Simspon Strong Tie brand 4-way metal connector- http://www.gardendome.com/sst_4way.JPG
Ernie

J & D Goldman wrote:

Hi all,
  I've looked at the starplates, which seemed rather limited at first.
Then I realized that you could get other axial angles out of them if
you either put a shim wedge between the plate and the lumber to
increase the angle, or shave the lumber to decrease the angle.
   Later, I found a few companies that make various "gazebo" plates.
They are often 6 or 8 strut hubs, but I don't find 5's like the
starplate.  They aren't real cheap either. However, USP and Simpson
sell some you might want to look at.  With the right combination of
plates, one could make about any dome you want, not just a 1 frequency
icosahedron.

http://www.uspconnectors.com/illustration.htm

http://www.lbrspec.com/simpson.html

-Dan G.

-----Original Message-----
From: The Millers <triorbtl at sover dot net>
To: domesteading <domesteading at sculptors dot com>
Date: Wednesday, July 04, 2001 9:01 PM
Subject: starplate

>>
http://www.strombergschickens.com/catalog/aviarys/aviary_supply.htm#fr
amework
>
>Sorry no pictures for a while because of my antiquated equipment. You
would
>have to have a small car to use it for a carport. Like an Austin
Mini.
>Steve
>
>Formactive--
>http://www.sover.net/~triorbtl/
>
>
>

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