Optimizing the compression ring

Abstract Some surface tensioned structures use rigid structural elements to balance the pre‐stress, which often contradict the lightness of the membrane. This is the case of cable‐domes and spoke wheel roofs, because they use compression rings that considerable reduce their structural efficiency. To estimate this impact, a comparative study of several alternatives has been carried out measuring the amount of material required for each case and analysing the behaviour of the different parts: masts, struts, edges, ridges, diagonals, hoops and valleys. The advantages of guying the masts, as well as the favourable or unfavourable effects of wind and snow loads on each part are revealed. The possibility of using a tensegrity compression ring is also mentioned.