Non-linear closed-form computational model of cable trusses

S. Kmet , Z. Kokorudova

In this paper the non-linear closed-form static computational model of the pre-stressed suspended biconvex and biconcave cable trusses with unmovable, movable, or elastic yielding supports subjected to vertical distributed load applied over the entire span and over a part (over the half) of the span is presented. The paper is an extension of the previously published work of authors [1]. Irvine's linearized forms of the deflection and the cable equations are modified because the effects of the non-linear truss behaviour needed to be incorporated in them. The concrete forms of the system of two non-linear cubic cable equations due to the load type are derived and presented. From a solution of a non-linear vertical equilibrium equation for a loaded cable truss, the additional vertical deflection is determined. The computational analytical model serves to determine the response, horizontal components of cable forces and deflection of the geometrically non-linear biconvex or biconcave cable truss to the applied loading, considering effects of elastic deformations, temperature changes and elastic supports. The application of the derived nonlinear analytical model is illustrated by numerical examples. Resulting responses of the symmetric and asymmetric cable trusses with various geometries (shallow and deep profiles) obtained by the present non-linear closed-form solution are compared with those obtained by Irvine's linear solution and those by the non-linear finite element method. The conditions for the use of the linear and non-linear approach are briefly specified.

Mots clés: Cable truss; Non-linear closed-form solution; System of cubic cable equations; Linear and non-linear behavior

S. Kmet, Z. Kokorudova. Non-linear closed-form computational model of cable trusses. International Journal of Non-Linear Mechanics, 2009, 44 (7), pp.735. ⟨10.1016/j.ijnonlinmec.2009.03.004⟩. ⟨hal-00551212⟩