w w w . g e o m e t r i c a . c o m

Geometrica, Inc.

12300 Dundee Court, Suite 200

Cypress, Texas 77429 USA

Tel: +1.832.220.1200 Fax: +1.832.220.1201

e-mail: sales@geometrica.com

© Geometrica, Inc 2009

Lamella

Kiewitt

Geodesic

Dome structures may be designed in several patterns:

the spiral-woven Lamella, the efficient Geodesic or Projection, or the ring and segment Kiewitt pattern.

I N S P I R E D B Y N AT U R E , E N G I N E E R E D F O R L I F E

Since F. Castano Sr. founded Geometrica’s precursor in the 1960’s, we have used advanced information technologies and materials

science to bring the beauty and efficiency of nature’s designs to unique architectural structures. Over the decades our integrated approach

has proven its value in hundreds of applications around the world. Architects and design professionals today are realizing the potential of

Geometrica Freedomes and space-frames for artistic expression.

I n s p i r e d b y n a t u r e

The Geometrica Freedome® draws its strength from nature, following forms that have evolved over the

millennia for strength, efficiency, load-carrying capability and beauty. Here is a structural solution that

provides space-shaping forms of timeless distinction.

E n g i n e e r e d f o r l i f e

The Geometrica system covers great expanses of space without intermediate supports. Its strength lies

in a graceful web of tubes and hubs designed with our custom software.

Geometrica means flexibility and affordable cost. Components include corrosion-resistant galvanized steel

or aluminum tubes joined with our patented hubs, finished with powder- or wet-coatings in any color of

the rainbow and clad with any roof or ceiling system, including translucent or transparent skylights.

Geometrica design software controls manufacturing, producing the exact tubes and hubs needed – all

bar-coded, labeled and packaged in the correct order for easy, flawless and fast assembly.

F O R M A N D F U N C T I O N A building’s form defines its character, delineates its usefulness, demarcates

its artistic legacy. The Geometrica® system gives design professionals an

exciting and versatile tool to create new forms for extraordinary buildings.

Stunning space and distinctive lighting make the 120m x 80m

Velodrome in Mexico City a national landmark.

Stadiums, arenas, swimming pools, gymnasiums and other sports structures play an active role in the event

itself. They should be both functional and striking, works of art and paragons of advanced technology.

Geometrica gives architects the ability to create a distinctive style while meeting the challenges for open

spans, unobstructed views, light weight and easy assembly.

S t r e n g t h a n d b e a u t y

Modular patterns can vary to accommodate heavier stresses; for example, double-density mesh reinforces

the corners of Monterrey Tech’s Lamella swimming pool, a 40 x 30m Freedome®.

S P O R T S

This 60m dome on the Kuang Fu swimming pool in Hsin-Su, Taiwan,

is one of many Freedomes enclosing sports centers.

A curving Geometrica wall of

smoky polycarbonate intersects

with the rectangular main body

of this library to shade the

building and redefine internal

and external space.

E X H I B I T S

Purlins fixed to the tubing create a uniform

flat surface for cladding of all types.

Geometrica structures define and beautify space, flying above or wrapping around. Structures can be

asymmetric in plan or profile and curved in multiple directions. Simple and non-invasive supports can

be designed allow for any clear span or column pattern. Geometrica Freedomes and space frames invite

visitors and delight them with superior aesthetics.

Aviaries and greenhouses

are perfect applications of

the Geometrica system since

cladding can consist of wire

mesh, netting or glass.

The light weight of Geometrica atria and canopies – whether in

space frames or domes – allows architects to create unique geometric

patterns. It’s the perfect way to link buildings or stores within a mall.

Signature enclosures not only define space but enhance the guest

experience of light, airiness and freedom.

The Geometrica system is perfect when adding to or renovating an

existing building, since our structures require few if any changes to

existing supports and foundations. Geometrica’s light weight also

simplifies the design of retractable roofs.

T R A N S P O R T A T I O N

R E T A I L A N D O F F I C E

Beyond pure function, Geometrica gives architects and planners the

freedom of design to create landmark structures that help travelers

feel comfortable and free.

Complex environments can be enclosed under a single Geometrica

cover, maintaining visual and physical continuity while allowing

natural light to enter in creative and changing patterns.

Geometrica can be the perfect solution for airports, train and bus

terminals, hangars and border facilities.

Photo: Chris Palmer

Swift Aviation’s 175’ x 175’ space

frame hangar in the Phoenix Sky

Harbor Airport.

D u r a b i l i t y a s t i m e l e s s a s t h e

G e o m e t r i c a d e s i g n

Geometrica frameworks are built to last: The hubs are aluminum,

and tubing members are aluminum or galvanized steel. Aluminum

can be anodized for lasting brilliance, and both aluminum and steel

can be powder- or wet-coated in all the colors of nature.

A double-layer translucent vault ceiling helps make patients

feel comfortable and protected in this medical center.

Conventional low ceilings can make traditional markets

feel crowded or stuffy. A Geometrica dome gives visitors

a relaxed and open atmosphere for shopping.

A retractable glass-clad Geometrica atrium

is the center of this facility.

The 60m span of this enclosed hangar provides

cover for the largest executive jets.

At the Mexico-US border, 40,000 square meters of Geometrica space frames

cover one of the busiest international cargo crossings in the world.

Let the mind and spirit soar! Geometrica helps architects realize their most moving inspirations.

The discipline of order and balance and the freedom of form that our creations bring to an open

space inspires students and congregations alike.

Slender structures stand on their own, free of columns, masts or other visual noise. Vast enclosures

house complete environments under one unifying envelope.

A S S E M B L Y A N D W O R S H I P

F r e e d o m o f f o r mCustom software makes it possible to design Geometrica structures in complex shapes that could not be

created any other way. And because design is unified with manufacturing, all parts are created in order –

the exact size, bar-coded, labeled and packaged for shipment and assembly.

This university courtyard offers protection from

the elements and the clear light of day.

Hulmumale Mosque in the Maldives is recognized

as one of the most beautiful places of worship in

South Asia. The geometric patterns of the interior

enrich the contemplative atmosphere.

This paraboloid church structure

reflects the aspirations of its members.

Since 1992, Geometrica has been a leader in building expansive, column-free environments that permit the free f low

of products and equipment in environments where traditional post and beam systems are restrictive and inefficient.

Our Freedomes® can be installed over any production operation. The structures are self-supporting during construction,

and they span up to 300m when complete. No expensive rigging or assembly equipment is needed, and no welding is

required. Because the hub is simple and the pieces are all packed in order, local labor can easily assemble this system.

Geometrica also provides accessories such as insulation, ventilation, lighting, etc.

The Nemak domes span a breathtaking 224 meters

without internal columns or support.

I N D U S T R I A L

Integra South West Energy Recovery built this 110m dome in the UK to

enclose an entire waste incineration plant in a creative and attractive way.

S t r u c t u r e

Geometrica structures use simple geometrical principles

in new ways. Never have geodesics been so flexible or

so beautiful. The basic module is a triangle, combined

into 3-D lattice structures that are far stronger and more

stable than 90-degree frames. The slender members share

and distribute loads, making the structure more efficient

and lighter than a conventional two-dimensional frame.

For the first time, architects can build doubly curved

geometries that span great distances and offer almost

infinite possibilities for free-style designs.

C l a d d i n g

Both the exterior and interior surfaces of a Geometrica structure may

be clad, typically with galvanized steel or aluminum formed-metal

panels. Translucent and transparent panels can be combined with

these to produce aesthetic patterns and provide natural light.

A r t a n d Te c h n o l o g y

The hub is stronger than the tubes

The unique Geometrica hub connection requires no welding, supports the full yield strength of structural steel and transfers

moments across the joint, resulting in lighter and more affordable structures.

The transparent glass-clad Geometrica dome of the prestigious Hyatt Hotel

in Cancun brings inside the perfect blue of the Caribbean sky.

Module

Depth

2 * Depth

Chord Module

Sparse Web Module

Double layers, “sparse diagonals”

Because of the bending strength of the Geometrica hub, double-

layer space frames may use “sparse diagonals”, in which only one

out of every four joints in each layer is connected with the other

layer. This reduces the weight of the structure, saving material,

freight and installation costs. It also it increases the module depth,

which adds strength.

Double layer standard Double Layer, Sparse Diagonals

Geometrica domes up to 30m wide usually employ a single-layer

network. Double layer geometries are ideal for larger domes up to

300m and for space frames that carry large shear loads.