Floating Tensile Table From PVC

A few weeks ago, I posted a 3D Printed Floating Tensile Table. The versions posted today are made from PVC pipe and fittings. Two versions are shown. The first takes less material while the second is more structurally sound.

A floating tensile table (also known as a suspension table or tension table) uses the principles of tensegrity (tensional integrity) to create the illusion that the table's surface is floating or being held up by thin cables, bands, or rods.

Materials:

1. 1/2" PVC Pipe
2. 1/2" PVC Fittings (see steps for quantity)
3. Eye Hooks
4. Bungee Cord

Tools:

1. Ruller
2. Marker
3. Saw
4. Drill and Bit

You will be building to this drawing. Note that the colors of the pipes correspond to different lengths (later steps).

Everything for both tables is made from 1/2" PVC pipe. Cut the pipe to the lengths shown. I used a band saw for the cuts; however, multiple tools are available to cut PVC. Remove burrs from the ends of the pipes. The quantity of each is listed under the graphic.

You will need the fittings shown in the graphic. Note that you will use 1/2 of these for each assembly.

Assemble the PVC as shown. For the hooks, predrill the holes in the 90-degree fittings and center support before attaching. Make sure everything is square and the center support is perpendicular to the base. Note that I didn't use glue - just interference fits for all joints.

I used string for the center and four elastic hair bands for the supporting cables. However, chains, paracord, rubber bands, etc., could also be used for the supports. Position the two assemblies facing each other. Attach the center support - the length is up to you. For the outer supports, this was an iterative process to achieve a flat top. You can see in the picture that I had to shorten some of the bands more than others. I could have cut the bands and cleaned things up but I wanted to use them for another project.

This is version 2 of the table. It is similar to version 1 but adds more structure to the center supports.

Cut pipes per the graphic.

Quantity per the graphic.

Assembly per the graphic.

Similar build to Option 1. I tried to be clever (no tying / consistent length) on this one and used bungee cords. Unfortunately, the cords were +/- 1" in length which required more tying to get the table flat. Not a big deal and again I could have cut off the excess cord to provide a nicer look.

This was a fun little project. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for viewing.