The present invention relates to a structural element known in the technical field as tensairity, which introduces as distinctive elements with respect to the known art: (i) ropes in the shape-memory alloy (SMA) with superelastic (SE) and shape memory (ME) behaviour; (ii) mechanical tensioners for the adjustment of the initial tension in the ropes; (iii) optionally a control apparatus (processor) is connected to electric circuits that induce flow of intensity variable current through the SMA wire ropes; (iv) optionally devices for real-time monitoring of the temperature and the level of tension in the SMA ropes; (v) optionally devices for real-time monitoring of the tensairity oscillations; (vi) optionally new structural geometries capable of sustaining static actions and multidirectional dynamics.

The present invention provides a modular system for constructing a structure assembly. The system comprises first and second sidewall components each comprising a set of spaced-apart longitudinally oriented grooves disposed in a first face thereof. The system comprises a plurality of rib components, each rib component having a pair of elongated protrusions extending from opposing sides of the rib component and, each protrusion being shaped to matingly engage with at least the first portion of the groove to connect the first and second sidewall components along a face-to-face direction. The system further comprises two elongate key joint members matingly engaging with two respective additional sidewall components to connect the sidewall components with the additional sidewall components along a transverse direction perpendicular to the face-to-face direction in a side to side relationship.

A clearspan structure including component systems, and methods of forming a clearspan structure including component systems, for mitigating hazards to personnel or equipment from explosions, fires, toxic material release, and other hazards in hazardous locations. The exemplary clearspan structure is also capable of withstanding environmental conditions such as snow loads and wind. The exemplary clearspan structure is, for example, a tent or fabric structure which includes a plurality of frame members forming a support system for the clearspan structure, and fabric roof portions and walls for enclosing the clearspan structure.

A balloon and floral arch adapted for receiving balloons and floral arrangements thereon. The arch is made up of a plurality of light weight, clear plastic, outer tubes, typically in 5 feet sections. The outer tubes are joined together end to end and formed into an arch. The arch can be 25 feet, 35 feet and greater. The outer tubes are used to receive a light weight, clear plastic inner tube with a string of LED lights. Opposite ends of the arch are attached to a pair of heavy, metal base plates for holding the arch upright on a floor surface. The string of lights can be powered by a 12 volt DC battery or a 110 AC electrical outlet. The arch can also include a remote control switch box for turning the lights on and off and starting blinking lights, fast or slow.

A frame truss made of two walls and a roof structure. Each of the two walls have an outer and inner chord. The outer and inner chords of each respective wall are not parallel, but the inner chords of the two walls are parallel to each other. The arrangement of the inner and outer chords of each wall creates an exterior overhang with respect to the ground. Each of the walls converge at their bases and are attached at their bases to a plate. The roof structure attaches to the top of each of the walls and spans between them creating a frame that can be assembled in conjunction with similar frames to construct a building system.