Form Finding of Shell Structures by Using Membrane Theory

2021 ◽  
pp. 213-237
Author(s):  
Francesco Marmo ◽  
Nicoló Vaiana
2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 199-214
Author(s):  
Luigi Fenu ◽  
Eleonora Congiu ◽  
Giuseppe Carlo Marano ◽  
Bruno Briseghella

AbstractArchitects and engineers have been always attracted by concrete shell structures due to their high efficiency and plastic shapes. In this paper the possibility to use concrete shells to support footbridges is explored. Starting from Musmeci’s fundamental research and work in shell bridge design, the use of numerical form-finding methods is analysed. The form-finding of a shell-supported footbridge shaped following Musmeci’s work is first introduced. Coupling Musmeci’s and Nervi’s experiences, an easy construction method using a stay-in-place ferrocement formwork is proposed. Moreover, the advantage of inserting holes in the shell through topology optimization to remove less exploited concrete has been considered. Curved shell-supported footbridges have been also studied, and the possibility of supporting the deck with the shell top edge, that is along a single curve only, has been investigated. The form-finding of curved shell-supported footbridges has been performed using a Particle-Spring System and Thrust Network Analysis. Finally, the form-finding of curved shell-supported footbridges subjected to both vertical and horizontal forces (i.e. earthquake action) has been implemented.


2015 ◽  
Vol 61 ◽  
pp. 24-31 ◽  
Author(s):  
Francis Aish ◽  
Sam Joyce ◽  
Samar Malek ◽  
Chris J.K. Williams

1990 ◽  
Vol 112 (3) ◽  
pp. 362-368 ◽  
Author(s):  
W. J. Fuchs ◽  
H. M. Karandikar ◽  
F. Mistree ◽  
H. A. Eschenauer

The layout of fiber composite structures compared to that of structures made from conventional homogeneous isotropic materials is far more difficult, because a fiber composite (laminate) is built up of several unidirectional layers (UD-layers) with fibers set at different angles. A contribution to the structural analysis and preliminary design of a fiber-reinforced conical shell is made in this paper. The equations of the membrane theory are used for analyzing the shell behavior. The design, with the objective of obtaining minimal deformation at minimal weight, subject to a set of failure constraints, is achieved by formulating and solving a compromise Decision Support Problem. Some designs of a fiber reinforced conical shell subjected to pressure load and temperature are presented.


2017 ◽  
Vol 32 (3-4) ◽  
pp. 149-159 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Sonntag ◽  
Simon Bechert ◽  
Jan Knippers

In the research field of segmented timber shells, two construction systems have lately received much attention, which both expose interesting structural and constructional characteristics: planar plate structures made of thin plywood and actively bent plywood structures. The research presented in this article combines elements of both approaches, resulting in a construction system for segmented shell structures with elastically bent elements. The increasing complexity of this approach requires a sophisticated design process, which integrates fabrication constraints as well as structural feedback. As a consequence, form-finding strategies of bending-active timber shells are discussed, with a special focus on the programming of the stiffness distribution in order to fulfil geometrical requirements. The authors also reflect on the specific structural challenges of joining thin sheets of plywood by transferring traditional textile connection methods to timber construction. Investigations of biological role models such as the sand dollar led to transfers of constructional principles on different levels. The resulting construction system was validated through the design and construction of a full-scale architectural prototype.


2017 ◽  
Vol 32 (1) ◽  
pp. 11-33 ◽  
Author(s):  
Qingpeng Li ◽  
Yan Su ◽  
Yue Wu ◽  
Andrew Borgart ◽  
Jan G Rots

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.


Author(s):  
W. J. Fuchs ◽  
H. M. Karandikar ◽  
F. Mistree ◽  
H. A. Eschenauer

Abstract The layout of fiber composite structures compared to that of structures made from conventional homogenous isotropic materials is far more difficult, because a fiber composite (laminate) is built up of several unidirectional layers (UD-layers) with fibers set at different angles. A contribution to the structural analysis and preliminary design of a fiber-reinforced conical shell is made in this paper. The equations of the membrane theory are used for analyzing the shell behavior. The design, with the objective of obtaining minimal deformation at minimal weight, subject to a set of failure constraints, is achieved by formulating and solving a compromise Decision Support Problem. Some designs of a fiber reinforced conical shell subjected to pressure load and temperature are presented.


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