Figure 4: Investigation of the Requirements for a Structurally Stable Minimum System

Figure 4:  Investigation of the Requirements for a Structurally Stable Minimum System

  1. One vector of restraint allows ball to define complete sphere -- a quasi-three-dimensional system. It can define a constantly varying radius sphere.
  2. Two vectors: a plane -- a quasi-two-dimensional system.
  3. Three vectors: a line -- a quasi-one-dimensional system.
  4. Four Vectors: a point -- no displacement.
  5. Note the possibility of in place rotating with the position otherwise fixed by the four vectors of restraint.
  6. The four vectors define the tetrahedron: the first identifiable "system" -- a primary or minimum subdivision of Universe. The ball tensionally situated at the center of gravity of the tetrahedron.
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Copyright 1999, Estate of Buckminster Fuller, all rights reserved.