Form-finding analysis of the tensioned saddle membrane structure considering the cutting lines

Abstract

Traditional membrane structure analysis including form-finding, load analysis and cutting ignores that in practical engineering the membrane structure is with cutting lines which will lead to wrinkle or destruction of the membrane, so the membrane structure with cutting line is designed. The lap joint and similar zero-stress state of the membrane are considered sufficiently during the membrane flatten process. Firstly, the geodesic method is used to generate space tangent line. The sliced space membrane diaphragms are unfolded to produce planar similar zero-stress membrane diaphragms with equivalent plate element method, then, with considering the joints of membrane diaphragms, the planar similar zero-stress membrane diaphragms are joined by thermal connect, and the second forming-finding of the membrane diaphragms is implemented. Finally, the results with and without cutting lines are compared, which proves the effectiveness of the method. The research can provide reference for future design and construction of membranes.

Keywords

• span wire and tension structure
• tensioned saddle membrane structure
• form-finding analysis
• cutting analysis
• geodesic line
• similar zero-stress state