Non-linear closed-form computational model of cable trusses

In this paper the non-linear closed-form static computational model of the pre-stressed suspended biconvex and biconcave cable trusses with unmovable, movable, or elastic yielding supports subjected to vertical distributed load applied over the entire span and over a part (over the half) of the span is presented. The paper is an extension of the previously published work of authors S. Kmet, Z. Kokorudova, Non-linear analytical solution for cable trusses, Journal of Engineering Mechanics ASCE 132 (1) (2006) 119-123]. Irvine's linearized forms of the deflection and the cable equations are modified because the effects of the non-linear truss behaviour needed to be incorporated in them. The concrete forms of the system of two non-linear cubic cable equations due to the load type are derived and presented. From a solution of a non-linear vertical equilibrium equation for a loaded cable truss, the additional vertical deflection is determined. The computational analytical model serves to determine the response, i.e. horizontal components of cable forces and deflection of the geometrically non-linear biconvex or biconcave cable truss to the applied loading, considering effects of elastic deformations, temperature changes and elastic supports. The application of the derived non-linear analytical model is illustrated by numerical examples. Resulting responses of the symmetric and asymmetric cable trusses with various geometries (shallow and deep profiles) obtained by the present non-linear closed-form solution are compared with those obtained by Irvine's linear solution and those by the non-linear finite element method. The conditions for the use of the linear and non-linear approach are briefly specified.