The Stability of Dome Structures in the Iranian Traditional Architecture, CaseStudy: Dome of Taj-al-Molk

Traditional Iranian domes are among the most prominent domes in the history in such way that they are still standing upright after the passage of many centuries and despite a large number of earthquakes, this fact shows that the construction method which traditional architects have used for these domes has been based on precise information and understanding in terms of the static science and the effect of forces and the influence of the elements on the domes. In this stabilizing structure in the traditional architecture, numerous factors have played their roles and each of these elements requires knowledge and analysis of structural behavior. The goal of this research is to examine the role of interior rib vaults, in the formation of the dome. The research method of this study is analytical-descriptive and data collection is conducted by reviewing annotated bibliography, observation and doing interviews. The current study goes on with the hypothesis that in the dome of Taj-al-Mulk the rib vaults have structural roles in the construction of the dome, in what follows in order to test this hypothesis, the research field method and with the help of some of the computer software, the mosque was simulated. After analyzing the connection between rib vaults, it can be stated that according to Galdieri’s view the rib vaults influence the dome construction so that besides having the role of conductivity for constructing the building, they have the role of supporting the dome.