A general review of lattice dome geometry and connection details, leads to a modeling approach, which introduces intermediate elements to represent connections. The method provides improved modeling of joint behavior and flexibility for comparative studies. The discussion of lattice domes is further specialized for parallel lamella geometry. A procedure is developed for minimizing the number of different member lengths. This procedure is incorporated into a program, which generates the geometric data for a specified dome.

The model is developed from a background which considers commercial space frame systems, static and dynamic loads, and modeling techniques using ABAQUS, a finite element program. An optional output of the generation program creates input data for ABAQUS. Modal analysis, static design loads, and earthquake loads are used in the evaluation of the model.