Photo:Stock Photosfrom 1024 Oliver Loesser/Shutterstock

Think back to your high school physics class.

You may remember drawing force diagrams with arrows signifying gravity and some outside variables.

The arrows were probably forces that work in compression.

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom 1024 Oliver Loesser/Shutterstock

The ancient pyramids are a classic example of this form of building.

Origins of Tensegrity

The termtensegritywas first used by legendary architectBuckminster Fullerduring his experimentation with alternative structural systems.

Snelson studied closely under Buckminster Fuller and has since made a career of similar sculptures in this style.

Needle Tower- 8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom Bakusova/Shutterstock

When standing in the middle of the tower, viewers will notice the six-pointed Star of David.

The stadium is a testament to Ottos innovation.

This architectural masterpiece was designed by architect Buckminster Fuller.

Needle Tower- 8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom HildaWeges Photography/Shutterstock

His teachings have gone on to influence others, including artist Kenneth Snelson.

The project was completed by Thomas Van Deventer and his design colleagues through a crowdfunding campaign and independent construction.

Dissipategradually transitions from a traditional structure to one that is more clearly tensile as it reaches the top.

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom meunierd/Shutterstock

The project is documented byJhono Bennett.

The Teflon-coated fiberglass form represents the Rocky Mountains and has become an important architectural landmark.

Tensegrity Tables

Tensegrity does not only exist on such grand scales.

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom Sahara Prince/Shutterstock

Designers have been testing optimal tensile structures from a long time.

The YouTube video above demonstrates the possibilities of using alternative structural systems in everyday craft and art.

Though it does not always look comfortable to use, tensegrity is certainly incredible to see in action.

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom meunierd/Shutterstock

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom meunierd/Shutterstock

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom Tupungato/Shutterstock

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom Shane Spoor/Shutterstock

Article image

Photo:Jhono Bennett

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Jhono Bennett

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:NASASuperBall

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom Arina P Habich/Shutterstock

8 Examples of Tensegrity That Almost Defy Gravity

Photo:Stock Photosfrom Arina P Habich/Shutterstock