RING STRUCTURES

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Corey called his creations "ring structures" . . . and explained that they achieve their strength from the fact that the individual hoops intersect at specific points to form, with the junctions, geometric configurations that aid in supporting load over an entire structure.

It's obvious that the simplicity, of the design is one of its most attractive features. However, several more obscure points are also well worth noting. First, the integrity of the form can be enhanced simply by adding more rings to the pattern. For example, it's possible to erect a functional dome with as few as five rings . . .but the incorporation of one or more supplementary hoops can provide additional rigidity and strength easily worth the added intricacy.

Second, regardless of whether five, eight, or more rings are utilized, the structure can be adjusted to take on a particular form. If, for example, a flattened dome with a large-diameter base is desired (perhaps for application as a cold frame), it's a simple matter to extend the bottom of the structure and compress the top. Conversely, if the goal is to create a stand-up storage area, the base can be constricted and the roof raised . . . to the point that the "foundation" can be smaller in diameter than the structure's girth. And, should an individual want to produce a dish-shaped configuration, the whole affair can be flipped inside out to form a concave dome with its apex at the ground!

Equally important, especially to those interested in keeping expense to a minimum, is the fact that the structure's components needn't be limited to specific—or even hightech—materials. Mr. Corey's experience indicates that almost anything resilient can be used to create the frame rings (including bamboo, wire, fiberglass, nylon, wood, plastic, aluminum, or synthetic rubber) . . .and, depending upon the application to which the assembly will be put, there's a similar flexibility regarding the covering, since any material that's fairly weather-resistant and can be sewn, taped, glued, or otherwise fastened together will be a valid candidate.

Finally, the fact that these structures don't have to be permanent can also be a point in their favor. Though they could (and most likely would, in the case of larger assemblies) easily be fastened to a slab or footers, their light weight and mobility are especially appropriate for short-term use. Yet those attributes don't necessarily become detriments in inclement weather: Even strong winds tend to pass over the basic flattened-dome shape, forcing it down rather than trying to lift it up.

A WOVEN FRAMEWORK

Probably the best way to understand the essence of the ring structure—short of actually constructing one—is to "walk through" a typical fabrication. As an example, we'll look at one of the first models that Bernard Corey assembled for our staffers . . . a six-ringer made from half a dozen lengths of off-the-shelf 3/4" X 20' CPVC pipe, and covered with an ultraviolet-treated clear PVC film.

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