Advances in Form Finding and Structural Analysis of Anisotropic Hyperbolic Paraboloid Shaped Tensile Membrane Structures using Nonlinear Finite Elements

Tensile Membrane Structures (TMS) revolutionize lightweight roofing and cladding, although encounter a deficiency of extensive structural resources. This study aims to elucidate their complexities by employing non-linear finite element analysis and the First-Order Reliability Method. Our methodology offers a standardized, objective evaluation specifically designed for hypar-shaped TMS. We propose a design methodology that incorporates acceptable stress requirements alongside a stress reduction factor of 5 to assess and design structures based on their stress and deformation responses. The reliability indices for the wrinkling failure limit condition of hypar TMS (anisotropic pre-stress) align well with the established safety index values from design codes. The fill stresses at a height of 3.5m are determined to be the lowest among all other heights for each load instance. Fill stresses approaching 3.0 kN/m are noted at a structure height of 1.5 m. It gradually falls as the elevation of the TMS is augmented. The approach satisfies ultimate failure criteria for isotropic pre-stressing but does not fulfil serviceability requirements. Anisotropic pre-stressing fulfils serviceability criteria but does not comply with fabric failure limitations. This dedication to scientific and numerical objectivity seeks to rectify the existing deficiency of specified design principles for TMS.