Materials & Technology

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

Fuller chose aluminum alloys developed for aircraft during WWII. This material revolutionized residential construction by providing high strength at low weight.

2,700kg

Total Weight

1:3

Weight vs Traditional

50+

Years Durability

Material Components

Structural Elements

• Central mast: 6061-T6 aluminum tubing
• Tension cables: Aircraft-grade steel wire
• Floor beams: Aluminum I-beams
• Compression struts: Aluminum tubes

Envelope Systems

• Wall panels: Stamped aluminum sheets
• Windows: Plexiglass (acrylic)
• Roof: Aluminum with insulation
• Floor deck: Aluminum-clad plywood

Interior Finishes

• Partitions: Lightweight aluminum frames
• Fixtures: Integrated plastic moldings
• Storage: Rotating aluminum shelving
• Surfaces: Formica laminates

Manufacturing Technology

The Beech Aircraft Company's expertise in aluminum fabrication was crucial. Techniques included:

Forming Processes

• Sheet metal stamping
• Precision die casting
• Tube bending
• Riveted assembly

Quality Control

• Dimensional inspection
• Surface treatment
• Component testing
• Factory assembly trials

Tension-Compression Principle

陽 Compression (Yang)

• Nature: Discontinuous
• Form: Islands (struts, mast)
• Character: Rigid, particle-like
• Shape: Convex (transmitting)
• Material: Aluminum tubes

陰 Tension (Yin)

• Nature: Continuous
• Form: Sea (cables, membrane)
• Character: Flexible, wave-like
• Shape: Concave (receiving)
• Material: Steel cables