Finite element analysis of tensioned fabric cone structures using a modified assumption on the meridianal stress

Abstract

In this latest paper concerning the shaping of tensioned fabric cone structures without meridianal cables, a modification of the assumption concerning the circumferential distribution of the meridianal stress is incorporated. In the previous study an assumption was made that the axial force in the structure was uniformly distributed about a perimeter of a section perpendicular to the axis of the structure. In this study, it will be assumed that the meridianal stress itself is uniformly distributed about a perimeter of a section perpendicular to the axis of the structure. This assumption would agree with results obtained when using uniform bi-axial pre-stress in the shaping analysis. Results between the two studies are compared for structures with bi-planar symmetry.