PRECEDENTS
vacuum as a structural system
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A vacuum within a structure can compress and stabilize incoherent, non-structural material, in an airtight envelope. It forces two materials to bond by exerting a pressure difference between them. A vacuum within a structure generates a pre-tension force in the structure and increases its load bearing ability. High performance vacuum based structural systems can be built as long as the asymmetrical deformations caused by different loading conditions are controlled.
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qualitative aspects of vacuum constructions
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Vacuum technology, if used in properly designed structures, has the potential to improve the thermal insulation as well as the acoustic properties of building structures. This technology is therefore an interesting and innovative possibility that could contribute to energy- savings along with improving the physical and the qualitative aspects in the building industry. 1 Public demonstration of vacuum as an adhesive to hold together two copper hemispheres, conducted by Otto von Guericke in 1654 2 Household vacuum-cleaner 3 Soda can that imploded due to removal of air 4 Capillary action in plants; sucking of liquid through straw 5 Suction cups modeled on tentacles use vacuum as an adhesive 6 Food preservation in air-tight vacuum-sealed bags 7 Air extraction compresses material in space-saving bags 8 Resin infusion in boats using the suction property of vacuum
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p [si.neu]
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The vacuum structures have the ability to fulfill several technical functions, those of, providing air and watertightness, insulating against heat and/or cold, regulating access of daylight and/ or solar energy, providing sound insulation, providing possible provisions for natural ventilation and the like.
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30 / p (si.neu) AADRL v.13 MachinicControl 2.0 /