RSK shelters use a minimum of 33% less bamboo than any equivalent span shelter
For illustration, in these diagrams, complete bamboo poles have been used for the lattice. In practice these poles would be split into a larger number strips.
This exceptional material efficiency of span of the reciprocal roof of the RSK is illustrated in the following diagrams.
A study of these diagrams shows that these savings in bamboo are due to:
1. Shorter and fewer lengths of bamboo are needed to provide tarpaulin support, especially in the center where it is needed most. The reciprocal frame used by the RSK is not only a self-supporting structure but also the most efficient arrangement for spanning a roof.
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2. Four less support posts are required to support the RSK shelter roof. This is due to the side poles of the traditional shelter roof frame having to supporting the roof load. The roof load of the RSK shelter is supported by the 4 corner posts.
The standard RSK shelter requires 35 metres of bamboo compared to 48 metres of bamboo for an equivalent size traditional shelter frame (35% less).
This is partly due to the relatively large amount of bamboo required for a traditional lattice roof and partly due to the extra posts needed to support it.