Analysis and Design of the Accessory Structure under the Large Deformation of a Flexible Roof

Abstract

An increasing number of large‐span space structures use flexible roofs to achieve a light and splendid architectural effect. When a flexible structural system such as a cable net is applied in a large‐span stadium, the roof will deform significantly under the self‐weight and wind load. Accessory structures of the roof such as catwalks, radial drainage pipes, circular drainage channels, and radial cable trenches need to cooperate with the large deformation of the roof to prevent damage caused by the large deformation of the roof. To thoroughly unveil the analysis and design method of an accessory structure, this paper first carried out the wind tunnel test to determine the wind load of the structure. Then, the gust response factors of each roof area and the dynamic amplification coefficient of the accessory structure considering the roof vibration were determined. Next, circular and radial catwalks were designed based on static analysis. A sliding joint was set in the accessory structure to adapt to the large deformation of the roof. Finally, a time history analysis of the catwalk was carried out to obtain the maximum deformation value of the sliding joint for the safety of the structure. The results demonstrate that the maximum deformation is less than the value given by the design and meets the specification.