Space frame connector

A method of constructing a three-dimensional space frame comprising:

• providing one or more axial chords;
• equipping each of said axial chords with a collar adapted to fit entirely around said axial chord, said collar comprising one or more attachment flanges having a width;
• providing one or more oblique strut tubes each having a first end and a second end;
• equipping one of said ends of said oblique strut tubes with one or more extrusion flanges;
• and
• attaching said oblique strut tubes to said axial chords by attaching said extrusion flanges to said attachment flanges, said extrusion flanges comprising first and second parallel leaves defining a slot therebetween, said slot having a width substantially equal to said width of said attachment flanges;
• wherein said first and second parallel leaves are provided in first and second planes positioned parallel to each other;
• wherein said attachment flange and said extrusion flange comprise attachment holes sized and positioned such that said attachment holes can be aligned during use to receive an expandable structural fastener that passes through the aligned holes;
• wherein both of said first and second parallel leaves are in contact with said attachment flange;
• and
• wherein said expandable structural fastener expands to contact said first and second parallel leaves and said attachment flange;
• and attaching a solar reflector to said three-dimensional space frame.