Tensegrity — Floating in Balance
This structure seems to defy gravity, but it is held up by a balance of tension and compression.
The rigid bars are in compression, while the thin strings are in tension. Together they distribute the forces so that the upper part remains suspended and stable.
The name tensegrity comes from tensional integrity — a structure held together by a network of tensioned elements.
Find out which parts are pulling, and which parts are pushing?
Additional Information
The structure’s strength comes entirely from continuous tension in the cables, not from the rods pushing on each other.
Buckminster Fuller popularized the concept in the mid-20th century, inspired by sculptor Kenneth Snelson’s work.
The same principle shows up inside your own body — muscles and tendons hold your skeleton’s separate bones in a similar tension-based balance.