Tensegrity+structure

[|Tensegrity] - term coined by architect Buckminster Fuller. “tensional” and “integrity". These unconventional structures maintain their stability, or integrity, through a pervasive tensional force, hence the term tensegrity. In 1949, Fuller's student, the sculptor Kenneth Snelson, created the first structure to be defined as a "tensegrity". Using two X-shaped wooden struts suspended in air by a taut nylon cable, Snelson captured the defining features of tensegrity:


 * biotensegrity - mimics the human skeleton - bones for compression, tendons for tension

[|NASAs Squishable Ball Bot] [|video] (5:55) - The "Super Ball Bot", under development at NASA Ames, is a robotic exoskeleton designed to land on the surface of Titan without a parachute or airbag. It can then roll about the surface by adjusting its shape.
 * What's the problem?**
 * **Ask** - Create a simple, light-weight structure that can land on a planet surface and then move around easily.
 * **Imagine** - What are some structural designs that that can be used? How can these be adapted for use in a planetary lander?
 * **Plan, Create** - Many ideas were designed with computer simulations and drawing software. Actual robots were constructed to test the best designs.
 * **Improve** - What are some of the improvements that can be made to the test robots to make them better?


 * That's engineering**

> stability, integrity, tension
 * Engineering ideas**

Challenges for you to work on...
 * Do It**
 * find some examples of tensegrity structures. Where are they located? Why were they created?
 * make a tensegrity model - 3 dowels with slots in the ends and 3 rubber bands - there will be 2 connections in each end of each dowel to make a 3 dimensional structure. Then try making one with 6 dowels and 6 rubber bands. [|Dartmouth Structures - Tensegrity] (video 6:57)


 * News, updates**


 * Learn more...**
 * [|Tensegrity]
 * [|Dartmouth Structures - Tensegrity] (video 6:57)

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