What is barrel vault and cross vault?
What is barrel vault and cross vault?
A barrel vault (also called a cradle vault, tunnel vault, or wagon vault) has a semicircular cross section. A groin (or cross) vault is formed by the perpendicular intersection of two barrel vaults. A rib (or ribbed) vault is supported by a series of arched diagonal ribs that divide the vault’s surface into panels.
What shape is that barrel vault in cross section?
A barrel vault, also known as a tunnel vault or a wagon vault, is an architectural element formed by the extrusion of a single curve (or pair of curves, in the case of a pointed barrel vault) along a given distance. The curves are typically circular in shape, lending a semi-cylindrical appearance to the total design.
What’s the difference between a barrel vault and a groin vault?
A barrel is completely smooth without any hard edges; Imagine cutting a barrel in half lengthwise. A groin vault is distinctly curved, but it also has some angles. They both have historical significance, and they have been used in architecture for many years.

What is the definition of a barrel vault?
barrel vault in American English noun. Architecture. a vault having the form of a very deep arch. Also called: barrel roof, cradle vault, tunnel vault, wagon roof, wagon vault.
What is cross vault in architecture?
A groin (or cross) vault is formed by the perpendicular intersection of two barrel vaults. A rib (or ribbed) vault is supported by a series of arched diagonal ribs that divide the vault’s surface into panels. A fan vault is composed of concave sections with ribs spreading out like a fan.

What is the benefit of a barrel vault?
ADVANTAGES: Barrel vaults give 3x more light than a similar surface in vertical glazing. Barrel vaults ensure an optimal spread of light. Natural light is free: you regain the purchase of the Cintralux® within 5 years.
Why barrel vault was a very efficient structure?
Eco-Friendly: These space frame structures are 100 % recyclable. Therefore it is known to be eco-friendly. Light in weight: One of the most important advantages of Barrel Vault space structure is its lightweight due to the uniform material load distribution spatially.
What is the best description of a cross vault?
A groin vault or groined vault (also sometimes known as a double barrel vault or cross vault) is produced by the intersection at right angles of two barrel vaults. The word “groin” refers to the edge between the intersecting vaults. Sometimes the arches of groin vaults are pointed instead of round.
What were the three types of vaults that were used?
The barrel-vault, groined (or four-part vault), and dome vaults were the three types of vaults employed. The barrel-vault was by far the most common type, used for churches, monasteries, and cathedrals from the 11th century until the 15th century.
What is a barrel vault in architecture?
A barrel vault is a continuous arched shape that may approximate a semi-cylinder in form, resembling the roof of a tunnel, or may be pointed at its apex. It is typically formed by a series of arches or vaults placed side by side or by a continuous shell.
What are the disadvantages of a barrel vault?
The disadvantage of a barrel vault, however is that it exerts thrust the same way the arch does. Meaning, the vault exerts an outward thrust and thus must be buttressed along the entire length. This characteristic prevented the use of large windows as well as prevented easy circulation.