Curved structures are characterized by the critical relationship between their geometry and structural behaviour, and selecting an appropriate shape in the conceptual design of such structures is important for achieving material efficiency. However, the set of bending-free geometries are limited and, often, non-structural design criteria (e.g., usability, architectural needs, aesthetics) prohibit the selection of purely funicular or antifunicular shapes.
In response to this issue, this thesis studies the possibility of achieving an axial-only behaviour even if the geometry departs from the ideally bending-free shape.
This dissertation presents a new design approach, based on graphic statics that shows how bending moments in a two-dimensional geometry can be eliminated by adding forces through an external post-tensioning system. his results in bending-free structures that provide innovative answers to combined demands on versatility and material optimization.
The graphical procedure has been implemented in a free-downloadable design-driven software (EXOEQUILIBRIUM) where structural performance evaluations and geometric variation are embedded within an interactive and parametric working environment. This provides greater versatility in finding new efficient structural configurations during the first design stages, bridging the gap between architectural shaping and structural analysis.
The thesis includes the application of the developed graphical procedure to shapes with random curvature and distribution of loads. Furthermore, the effect of different design criteria on the internal force distribution has been analyzed.
Finally, the construction of reduced- and large-scale models provides further physical validation of the method and insights about the structural behaviour of these structures.
In summary, this work strongly expands the range of possible forms that exhibit a bending-free behaviour and, de facto, opens up new possibilities for designs that combine high-performing solutions with architectural freedom.
Free download at: http://oa.upm.es/39733/1/Leonardo_Todisco.pdf
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