Abstract
Combining graceful architectural lines and superior mechanical properties, longitudinal asymmetrical shuttle-shaped columns (LA-SSCs) have provided a number of reliable solutions for carrying horizontal and vertical payloads on various types of supporting columns in large-span space structures. This paper investigates the global stability behavior and ultimate load-bearing capacity of LA-SSCs under the combination of axial compression and horizontal point load, and a corresponding strength design procedure is proposed for practical engineering applications. Firstly, the sectional strength prediction formula of LA-SSC under the compression-bending combination loads is derived on the basis of the cross-section strength theory with an explicit expression, and the validity and appropriateness of the formula is verified by using finite element (FE) numerical investigation of examples. Subsequently, the weak section of LA-SSC is analyzed and the formula for its location is proposed, and the results show that the weak section is not always the minimum section of LA-SSC as the load or tapering ratio varies. Afterwards, focusing on the global stability capacity behaviors and design, the implications of major parameters of LA-SSCs, such as the column length and vertical-horizontal loading ratios, are investigated and discussed in detail. Finally, the global stability design formula of LA-SSCs under axial compression and horizontal point loads is established by using FE numerical examples, and the corresponding design methodology and calibration procedure are supplied. With the relevant formulas of definite physical significance and favorable mathematical precision, the design methodology of LA-SSCs under the load combination is proposed and is complete and efficient in predicting the global stability capacity.
Published Version
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