Research on the mechanical properties of membrane connections in tensioned membrane structures

Abstract

As an important part, the connections generally are important for the overall behavior of the structure and the strength and serviceability of the connection should be ensured. This paper presents the mechanical properties of membrane connections in tensioned membrane structure. First, the details of common connections used in the membrane structure are introduced. Then, the common connections including membrane seam, membrane-flexible edge connection and membrane-rigid edge connection are tested and the corresponding failure mechanisms are discussed. Finally, the effects of connection parameters on the connection strength are investigated and proper connection parameters are proposed. The strength reduction factors corresponding to different connection types are proposed, which can be references for the design and analysis of membrane structures.