Basic mechanical behaviour of spindle Tensairity structures

作者：Cao Zhenggang^*; Zhang Xiongdi; Fan Feng; Sun Ying

来源：China Civil Engineering Journal, 2011, 44(1): 11-18.

• Arch structures
• Axial forces
• Concentrated load
• Cross section
• Cross-section area
• Diameter ratio
• External loads
• FEM
• Finite element analysis method
• Finite element models
• Initial state
• Inner pressure
• Loading state
• Mechanical behaviour
• Mechanical characteristics
• Overall stiffness
• Structural failure
• Structure systems
• Tensairity
• Tension and compression

The Tensairity structure system has not yet been employed in China. In order to master the finite element analysis method for Tensairity and obtain the basic mechanical properties, a fine spindle Tensairity finite element model was formed by using ANSYS, and the complete progress analysis of the structure were carried out from initial state to the loading state. The numerical analysis agreed well with the results of the experiments in the literature. The effects of various parameters, including inner pressure, member cross section, and membrane stiffness, etc., on the mechanical properties of Tensairity structures were investigated under concentrated load. The results showed that the mechanical characteristic of Tensairity is in that it can balance the external load by a moment from the axial force of the members of upper and lower chord, thus the design of the separation of tension and compression. Effective methods to increase the overall stiffness of the Tensairity structure include raising initial inner pressure, enlarging the cross section area of the upper and lower chord, and augmenting the span-diameter ratio. A valuable suggestion was that the effective connection between the pneumatic rib and the members of upper and lower chord should be guaranteed to avoid the pneumatic rib from turning around, which may lead to structural failure, and that the pneumatic rib';s tightness and the stability of inner pressure should also be guaranteed.

• 出版日期2011