Numerical simulation and experimental verification on the interaction model of ETFE cushions

On the basis of the interaction theory of cushion system, a new numerical modeling method of ETFE cushions is proposed. According to this method, the interaction FE model of ETFE cushion is established. In addition, a full-scale model of regular hexagon ETFE cushion is designed and made, and the shape test and loading test of cushion are preformed. It is found that the numerical results of form-finding and loading analysis are in good agreement with the test results. The interaction FE model is accurate and effective for static analysis of ETFE cushions.