Patent ID: 7228671

Claim:
A top down method of assembling a modular domical structure, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a plurality of strutless building modules, each of the modules comprising a polygonal member having a center and a center connector affixed to the center, and connection means for assembling a plurality of the polygonal members into a domical structure having an uppermost section and a lower portion; (b) erecting a hoist in a substantially vertical position, the hoist having a base and having lifting means and a connecting cable with center connector attachment means for connecting to the center connectors of the polygonal members; (c) assembling and connecting a plurality of polygonal members so as to form a first course of polygonal members around and encircling the base of the hoist, which will comprise the uppermost section of the domical structure; (d) connecting the center connectors of at least two of the polygonal members forming the first course to the attachment means using the hoist connecting cable; (e) elevating the first course in a balanced fashion using the hoist so as to present at least one side of the polygonal members of the first course at a convenient height to workmen on the ground; (f) attaching a plurality of polygonal members to the elevated polygonal members of the first course so as to form a second course of polygonal members below the first course; (g) elevating the entire dome structure under construction to again present at least one side of the polygonal members comprising the second course for attachment of further polygonal members to form further courses, if desired; and (h) repeating steps (f) and (g) for all subsequent courses until the domical structure is constructed to the desired extent.