Cast Concrete Node Connections for Rod and Truss Structures

The aim of the project is to develop efficient and economical node solutions for planar and spatial trusses as well as tensioned beams made of wood. The force transmission between tension and compression rods, as well as the chords, is achieved through cast concrete nodes. Recesses are made in the chords, into which the connected tension and compression rods are inserted. These recesses are filled with a grout that hardens into a compression node. Once hardened, the grout node is able to transfer the forces of the connected compression rods and the chord through surface contact pressure, while the forces of the connected tension members are anchored through anchor elements, thereby introducing compressive forces into the node as well.