R. Buckmonster Fuller is one of my role models. He and artist Ken Snelson developed the concept of "Tensegrity", or "tension integrity". The concept is fairly straightforward: If you can design a structure such that the compression members are always in compression, and the tension members always in tension, regardless of the loading on the structure, then all of the tension members can be replaced with lighter material that does not need to withstand compression, such as cable. A properly designed tensegrity structure can weigh only a fraction of what a similar standard structure would weigh. I have built a few tensegrity structures, one of which is shown below. This is a shade structure, built out of only three wooden beams and nylon rope. The tension of all the rope members locks the compression members securely in place. This structure, though very light, is extremely sturdy.

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