Analysis on the Collapse Resistance of the Loop-free Suspen-Dome Subjected to Cable or Strut Failure

Current suspen-domes use loop cables which are key elements and carry large tensions. Loop-free suspen-dome was proposed for improving the collapse resistance and reducing cable tensions. The collapse resistance of loop-free suspen-dome has not been verified. In this paper, analysis on dynamic response of both current suspen-dome and loop-free suspen-dome induced by sudden cable or strut failure is performed to investigate the collapse resistance. Under the loaded state, cables or struts were suddenly removed from the structure to simulate cables or struts failure. Th residual bearing capacity of the structure after the rupture was also analyzed. It is concluded that collapse resistance of the loop-free suspen-dome is good. Failure mode of the loop-free suspen-dome is proportionate. The effect on the loop-free suspen-dome due to initial failure grows proportionately along with the quantity of failed members. It also turns out that cables in the loop-free suspen- dome are relatively independent. Only the failed cable loses tension, other cables still remain in tension. It is also found that the most important cable or strut in the loop-free suspen-dome is in the outermost layer of the cable-strut system. More concern should be shown to the cables and struts in the outermost layer.