Tensioned Fabric Structures with Surface in the Form of Chen-Gackstatter

Abstract

Abstract. Form-finding has to be carried out for tensioned fabric structure in order to determine the initial equilibrium shape under prescribed support condition and prestress pattern. Tensioned fabric structures are normally designed to be in the form of equal tensioned surface. Tensioned fabric structure is highly suited to be used for realizing surfaces of complex or new forms. However, research study on a new form as a tensioned fabric structure has not attracted much attention. Another source of inspiration minimal surface which could be adopted as form for tensioned fabric structure is very crucial. The aim of this study is to propose initial equilibrium shape of tensioned fabric structures in the form of Chen-Gackstatter. Computational form-finding using nonlinear analysis method is used to determine the Chen-Gackstatter form of uniformly stressed surfaces. A tensioned fabric structure must curve equally in opposite directions to give the resulting surface a three dimensional stability. In an anticlastic doubly curved surface, the sum of all positive and all negative curvatures is zero. This study provides an alternative choice for structural designer to consider the Chen-Gackstatter applied in tensioned fabric structures. The results on factors affecting initial equilibrium shape can serve as a reference for proper selection of surface parameter for achieving a structurally viable surface.

Soap Film of Tensioned Fabric Structure in the Form of Handkerchief Surface

“…Applicability of the computational strategies proposed has been verified by form-finding carried out models of tensioned fabric structures by [5,6]. A few researchers have carried out form-finding using nonlinear analysis method known as Catenoid, Helicoid, Scherk, Enneper, Oval, Costa, Moebius Strip, Monkey Saddle and Chen-Gackstatter TFS models, respectively [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19]. In this study, only form-finding using nonlinear analysis method of Handkerchief surface, u=v=0.2 and u=v=1.2 has been carried out.…”

A Computational Study on Tensioned Fabric Structure in the Form of Richmond’s

“…Form-finding using nonlinear analysis method or soap film models in the form of Catenoid, Helicoid, Scherk, Enneper, Costa, Moebius Strip, Egg, Oval, Monkey Saddle, Chen-Gackstatter and cable reinforced Bour's TFS models have been carried out by [7], [8], [9], [10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16], [17], [18], [19], [20], [21] and [22]. Tensioned fabric structure with different surface form could be realized.…”