Data-driven strategy for geometric imperfection analysis of assembled large-span ring truss components

Abstract

Assembled large-span ring truss, constructed using circular steel tubes, is gaining popularity as a new structural form. However, the insufficient availability of design and modeling methods for geometric imperfection of components poses a challenge in studying the cumulative effects of these imperfections on the overall structural performance. Therefore, a data-driven strategy for analyzing geometric imperfections in assembled ring truss structural components (circular steel tubes) is presented in this study. The primary objective is to enable the design of geometric imperfections based on measured data and establish a corresponding equivalent calculation model to incorporate the measured imperfections into the structural analysis model. The core of this strategy lies in utilizing the high-precision point cloud data of components obtained through 3D laser scanning technology as the primary input. The geometric imperfection modes are extracted accurately and rapidly by employing a developed algorithm. Furthermore, a comprehensive framework is proposed for establishing the geometric imperfection calculation model based on the identified modes. A case study was conducted to validate the proposed strategy, revealing its high reliability. Moreover, it is recommended to extend this strategy for analyzing geometric imperfections in similar building structural members.