Form-finding of shell structures generated from physical models. Issue 1 (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Qingpeng; Su, Yan; Wu, Yue; Borgart, Andrew; Rots, Jan G
• Is Part Of: International journal of space structures. Volume 32:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 11
• Page End: 33
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: form-finding -- physical models -- shell structures -- structural analysis -- vector form intrinsic finite element; Space frame structures -- Periodicals; Space (Architecture) -- Periodicals; Space (Architecture); Space frame structures; Periodicals; 624.177
• DOI: 10.1177/0266351117696577
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0956-0599

Abstract

Vector form intrinsic finite element is a recently developed and promising numerical method for the analysis of complicated structural behavior. Taking the cable-link element as example, the framework of the vector form intrinsic finite element is explained first. Based on this, a constant strain triangle element is introduced, and relevant required equations are deduced. Subsequently, the vector form intrinsic finite element is successfully applied to carry out form-finding of shells generated from physical models, such as hanging models, tension models, and pneumatic models. In addition, the resulting geometries are analyzed with finite element method, thus demonstrating that a dominant membrane stress distribution arises when the shell is subjected to gravitational loading.