NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF SEMI-RIGID JOINTS IN SINGLE-LAYER DOME STRUCTURES

This paper presents the finite element analysis (FEA) models used to conduct a numerical analysis of semi-rigid joints and semi-rigidly jointed space structures. Two test models, one of a semi-rigid joint and the other of a semi-rigidly jointed space structure, are studied in order to verify the corresponding FEA models. An investigation of the moment-rotation relationship of semi-rigid joints shows that the proposed models can describe relatively accurately the behavior of the joint. Hence, a model is defined in ANSYS for a basic element consisting of a beam element and a spring element to forma a semi-rigidly jointed dome. A FEA of the semi-rigidly jointed dome model is carried out using this member model and by comparing the FEA results with the corresponding test result, it is shown that the proposed FEA models can be used to effectively predict the ultimate load of the reticulated dome including its post-buckling behavior. Also, the FEA analysis in this study has contributed very important and valuable information for the design and optimization of both joint and dome.