131 Structural Forms
There are three structural strategies for creating things: mass, frames, and shells.
• Mass structures consist of materials that are piled or stacked to create solid forms. Their strength is a function of the weight and hardness of the materials. Consider mass structures for barriers and small shelters, especially when building materials are limited.
• Frame structures consist of struts joined to form a skeleton. Their strength is a function of the strength of the elements and joints, and their organization. Consider frames for large structures.
• Shell structures consist of materials that wrap around to contain a volume. They maintain their form and support loads without a frame or solid mass inside. Their strength is a ...
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