An Approximate Method for the Prediction of the Behaviour of Some Space Structures.

This thesis presents an efficient method to predict the behaviour of some space structures, namely, single layer grids and domes. The approach is based on transforming a dense space structure into a similar space structure with lower density (fewer number of nodes and elements). This reduced structure is then analysed in the usual manner and the results are employed to obtain an approximation to the behaviour of the actual structure. In order to assess the accuracy and the limitations of the proposed method, a number of practical examples are analysed. The influence of irregularity of loading and support conditions have also been investigated. The comparison of the results obtained by the exact analysis has shown that the accuracy of the proposed method is satisfactory for the design of space structures. For generating data and organizing the graphical output of the examples studied, the concepts of formex algebra together with the programming language Formian have been utilised. The application of the proposed method is extended to the dynamic behaviour of grids and domes. The proposed method provides a simple means for designers to estimate the effects of changes in the density of the configuration on the behaviour of grids and domes. The method has the potential of being extended in many directions and, in particular, to the study of non-linear behaviour of space structures