Wind load equivalence method and structural response analysis of large-span space steel structures

In coastal areas, large-span space steel net trusses experience structural deformation due to strong winds. Currently, the application of equivalent static wind load to the structure does not consider the influence of local forces. The local uneven force on the bars caused by the structural appearance is ignored, complicating the identification of local deformation in the net truss. Additionally, this simplification increases the difficulty in evaluating wind load-sensitive areas of the building. This paper introduces a novel method for calculating static equivalent wind load, considering the transmission relationship between the structural roofs appearance and the internal truss forces. Following the outlined methodology, wind load is precisely applied at nodes with diverse windward faces, taking into account the node area ratio. The paper also examines how varying standard wind load values affect mesh truss deformation under different wind angles. Results indicate that, at 0o, 90o, 180o, and 270o wind directions, wind load-sensitive areas are linked to roof shape and structural characteristics. Maximum displacement in the truss grid’s overall structure primarily occurs in the windward corner contact area. Network truss deformation linearly increases with the load standard. If the wind load exceeds 1.0 kN/m2, deformation is associated with the windward vertical plane’s area and steel column spacing, impacting overall structural safety.