Research and Application of Beam String Structures

Abstract

By virtue of their excellent structural performance and attractive shape, beam string structures have been used extensively in large-span public buildings since their first appearance in the 1980s. A large number of beam string structures with spans of more than 80 m have been built in China. This paper presents an overall review of research on beam string structures and their applications. The inverse iteration method is introduced, mainly to carry out the form-finding, as well as other modified methods. For the prestressing process, most typical experimental studies are represented, including both the full-scale tests and the down-scale orthogonal tests. To study the static behavior, the effect of a prestressed cable on structural stability is presented, followed by a typical full-scale static loading test. For the dynamic behavior of beam string structures, noteworthy issues when performing dynamic numerical analysis are discussed, such as the natural vibration characteristics and the seismic response during earthquakes. To demonstrate the progressive collapse resistance, structural sensitivity to the steel cable and other structural components is discussed, and conceptual design concerns regarding resistance to progressive collapse are presented. In addition, a detailed introduction of the latest applications of beam string structures in China is presented.