About GSD Project

The GSD Project

The design exploits the fundamental principles of physics and biology, achieving the organic wholeness of a biotic environment as a functional energy-generating, self-sufficient unit.

The project is being undertaken in the ‘Engineering for Extremes’ research theme at Monash University within the Department of Civil Engineering.

Research is undertaken by teams with a long standing track record of achievements that are amongst the top in the country. And able to deliver an integrated research program designed to solve such complex issues in building environmentally friendly houses for the XXI century capable of dealing with weather extremes.

Why we are Unique?

Unlike other dwellings, this mode of construction and design permits the calibration of the building along scientific lines, specific to site and micro climate; and to minimize environmental impacts; thereby solving that: “elusive constellation of a lightweight construction with minimal primary energy expenditure, maximum durability, simplest upkeep, and widest possible flexibility” (Revedin 2009).

The GSD structural formation coincides – deliberately - with the stress gradients: (Circular Force; Line of thrust; Horizontal thrust; Peripheral tension) by countering these through ring beams & buttresses. Therefore, GSD is achieving a balance of forces that are in equilibrium thus giving exceptional rigidity. The triangular grid that is currently being used with geodesic domes – though very strong – has too many components that are required to achieve the spherical geometry of a dome.

A fresh design provided a unique symbiotic housing offering a biotic environment fully self-sufficient (energy generation, waste handling, aquaponics) through the use of the moat system that contains water cistern, garden area, heat bank, filtration & wastes processing area.

The dome is designed and constructed by optimizing physics and ecological principles, and optimally calibrated (in terms of wall openings to volume). By using its circular moat system that function as a water reservoir, ground radiation filter and vegetation growth area, heat bank and waste disposal unit; such a systems integrated structure could become a setting for a variety of interested parties dealing with building design, materials and other construction matters.

Modular construction forms part of 21st century’s building technology and is capable of delivering housing anywhere in the world.

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Characteristics of the GSD

Patented Design

An engineered building designed to withstand weather extremes and earthquakes, whilst minimizing adverse environmental impacts. Australian Patent No. 785430 – All Rights Reserved.

Minimazing the Carbon Footprint

A low energy housing design
Minimum soil displacement
Zero or minimal carbon emissions Engineered to exploit the fundamentals of a biotic environment as a functional energy – generating, self- sufficient unit
Using renewable energy sources
Utilizing materials that require less energy in production, erection and transportation
The configuration of the building decreases materials and soil impacts

Air Flow Efficiency

Natural airflows and internal ambient temperature within a dome are optimized through strategically placed air vents at floor and ceiling level and regulated by means of ‘calibrated’ baffles to efficiently control the flow; thereby augmenting comfort, reduce energy wastage and dispense with costly air conditioning systems.
Effective design coupled with scientific calculations allow easy calibration to local micro climate & site.

The Structure

A multi spaced prefabricated foundations free building
Minimizing the complexity of the structural elements
Able to be constructed to any size – with or without central support
Utilises “the modified thrust line analysis” to ascertain the minimum thrust of spherical domes and to assess the structural integrity of the GSD
With uniformity of members, progressively reduced in size towards the top of the dome, essentially providing a double layered ‘space frame’
Lightness of the overall structure
A mode of construction that permits the calibration of the building along scientific lines, specific to site and micro climate
Giving a protective design allowing internal flexibility of space
Single storey or with upper floors incorporated as required
Rotating structure design available