Optimization of membrane structures through the new method of applying calculation loads

• Main Authors: Milošević Vuk S., Kostić Dragan S., Đurić-Mijović Danijela Z.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Savez inženjera i tehničara Srbije 2015-01-01
• Series: Tehnika
• Subjects: Membrane structures; optimization; snow load; numerical model
• Online Access: http://scindeks-clanci.ceon.rs/data/pdf/0040-2176/2015/0040-21761501029M.pdf

Membrane structures are one of the most attractive structural systems used today. They are characterized by their double curved form, large spans and extremely low self weight. Besides these favorable properties, they also have certain imperfections. Their thermal properties need to be significantly improved. Large deflections that occur under external loading are much higher compared to other structures and structural materials. However, these large deflections allow for the possibility of optimizing the membrane structures through the method of applying the calculation loads. This paper presents a research done on this topic. The research is done as a numerical experiment on one structure, loaded with four different calculation snow loads. The methods for applying the calculation snow loads that are currently used are analyzed, and a new method of applying calculation load in steps is proposed. Parametric analysis and comparison of results showed that a certain level of optimization can be achieved. The directions of further research that would provide higher levels of optimization are also discussed.