09/07/2026
I’m working on a SketchUp-based design workflow for low-resource shelter systems, and I’m looking for technical feedback.
The first system is an experimental earthen dome made from unfired clay-and-straw blocks.
The idea is that each block acts like a three-dimensional wedge, or voussoir. In the hexagonal block system, each block is surrounded by six neighbors. The sloped faces create a two-way shear interlock, so the dome distributes compression and shear through the shell instead of transferring loads mainly in one direction like a traditional arch.
The main challenge is geometric precision.
Manual approximation of block tilt angles, mold geometry, cut angles, and surface alignment is not accurate enough.
The workflow currently supports three shelter systems:
1. Interlocking earthen domes
Calculates block geometry, inward tilt angles, repeated unit types, and mold drawings for casting earthen blocks.
2. Triangular geodesic domes
Generates geodesic dome systems from triangular panels, classifies repeated panel types, and produces fabrication-ready layouts.
3. Lightweight tent-based shelters
Designs shelter frames and produces cutting and sewing patterns for rain-resistant fabric or plastic membranes.
I’m mainly looking for technical criticism from people with experience in:
- structural engineering
- masonry or earthen construction
- geodesic domes
- shell structures
- material testing
- tent fabrication
Questions:
- Does the two-way wedge/interlock concept make structural sense?
- What failure modes should be tested first?
- What would be the minimum responsible physical test before attempting a full-scale prototype?
- Are there existing references for similar block-based dome systems?
Any technical feedback, criticism, or references would be appreciated.
