Analytical Study on the Behaviour of Composite Space Truss Structures with Openings in a Concrete Slab

Abstract

A space truss structural system is a three-dimensional arrangement of linear elements in a pyramid pattern forming a Double Layer Grid (DLG) system. Space trusses are an elegant and economical means of covering larger areas such as roof systems, in a wide variety of applications such as a stadium, aircraft-hanger, assembly hall, etc. The major problem encountered in using the space truss as a roofing system is the sudden failure of the whole structure due to critical buckling of the top chord member. Earlier research has shown that the optimal solution to overcome such a failure is by providing a small thickness of concrete slab over the space truss, so that the space truss with concrete slab (Composite Space Truss) will act as a floor system for the multi-storey building. For better ventilation and lighting in the building, the need for openings in the composite space truss is unavoidable; however, providing an opening in the concrete slab will reduce the load carrying capacity of the structure. The analysis of a composite space truss of size 30m x 30m with all possible locations of openings for four different support conditions was carried out using ANSYS in order to study the load - deflection behaviour. Further, the ductility factor and energy absorption capacity of the composite space truss with different locations of slab openings were compared.