Research on Influence of Member Initial Curvature on Stability of Single-Layer Spherical Reticulated Domes

Abstract

The distribution modes and magnitudes of member initial curvature significantly influence the stability of single-layer reticulated dome. Based on the deflection curvature of a compression bar with unequal end moments, a numerical simulation method for member initial curvature considering end moment effects is proposed using multi-beam methods based on ABAQUS. The approach is verified through a comparison of experiments using different systems. Using Kiewitt-8 dome as an example, the extent of the member initial curvature's effect on the stability bearing capacity of these dome for different structure parameters is studied. The results show that the bending moments at the bar's ends can affect the deflection shape of a compression bar and that the most unfavorable condition occurs when the member initial curvatures are coordinate with the deflection shapes. The reduction degree of the stability load-bearing capacity of such dome modelled using member initial curvatures considering end moments is greater than that for curvatures without considering end moments. The influence of different member initial curvature amplitudes on the stability of these dome varies significantly, and a reasonable maximum value of the member initial curvature is proposed for performing stability analysis based on the structure response and realistic construction conditions.