Bent Plate & Square Tube Space Frame Layout Calcs

[Bill Tillman]

It's been a very long time since I dove into space frame geometry. I think it was 1980 something. I'm trying to dust off my skill set on this and finding it is quite a challenge. Does anyone have any reference on this? In particular, I'm trying layout in 3D model for a rendering I want to show the client.  I think I've got it close but it just doesn't work quite right and I got to believe there is a mathematical method to solve this. I've attached my primary layout information. When I tried to set the depth of the frame using the angles I calculated something doesn't fit just right. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

The design parameters I'm shooting for:

 

Tube size = 3"x3"x3/16" Steel

Module = 60" x 60"

Depth = 36"

 

Space Frame(01).dwg

Edited August 29, 2020 by Bill Tillman

[lrm]

The most popular configuration for a space frame is based on a pyramid cell, highlighted in red below.  Is that what you seek to construct?

If so create a simple single line rectangular 3D grid 60 x 60 x 36 and use it to layout your steel tubes.