A PROJECT REPORT

ON FOUNDATION OF GEODESIC DOME

FOR FOUNDATION ENGINEERING

SUBMITTED TO V.VASUGI
SUBMITTED BY
VINAY SONI 12BCL1045
RAVI MEHTA 12BCL1
ABHISHEK MAHESHWARI 12BCL10

OBJECTIVES
1. Study of foundation of geodesic dome
INTRODUCTION
A dome is defined as a large hemispherical roof or ceiling. Although many different types of domes exist, all domes share
certain advantages, whether or not they are geodesic. Their compound-curved shape is inherently strong, giving a selfsupporting clear span with no columns as supports. Domes are resource and energy-efficient because, of all possible shapes,
a sphere contains the most volume with the least surface. A dome typically has a circular footprint. A circle encloses the
most area within its perimeter. Thus, for a given amount of material, a dome encloses more floor area and interior volume
than any other shape.

PROCESS INVOLVED
The initial phase of construction activity ensures that the building subgrade is prepared for the long term performance and
unique loading of the stored materials and handling systems. Dome technologys design build team identifies geotechnical
characteristics of the project site and establishes solutions that work together with existing site conditions, thereby avoiding
or minimizing costly site remediation work prior to construction. During construction the site is prepared according to design
assumptions. Where variations occur between design assumptions and actual conditions, the design build team develops
alternate solutions to satisfy actual conditions. Geotechnical and subgrade preparations include thorough analysis of existing
soil conditions, remediation of existing soils, and replacement of soils, compaction, and other similar requirements
determined by the performance parameters of the specific project
After proper preparation of the subgrade, work activities shift focus towards construction of the Dome foundations and
tunnel systems. Depending on geometry of the Dome the foundations may be functioning only for gravity loads of the
building, or with significant reinforcing steel to establish the tensioning ring beam that provides the primary thrust resistance
for the dome portion of the structure. The circular beam footing provides significant resistance against lateral movement and
bridges against potential localized subgrade failures in the foundation system.

GENERAL PROCEDURE FOLLOWED

1 After clearing and levelling the home site, a trench is dug for the foundation footing, following detailed drawings supplied
by the kit manufacturer. The base of the dome is not circular; rather, it is outlined by five short walls alternating with five
long walls (twice the length of the short walls). Forms are placed for the footings; many builders like to use permanent
Styrofoam forms that need not be removed. Concrete is then poured in the footing forms.
2. A layer of sand may be used to further level the surface and provide a base for the foundation slab. Reinforcing steel bars
are tied together in a grid, and concrete is poured to form the foundation.
3 Foundation walls are built atop the footings, up to approximately ground level. If desired, riser walls (which are provided
as part of the kit) are installed atop the foundation walls and bolted to one another.
Scope
1. Can be used for low cost housing
2. Effective in earthquake zone areas