Finite deformation and stability behaviour of spherical inflatables subjected to axi-symmetric hydrostatic loading

This paper deals with the large deflection and stability behaviour of inextensible spherical air-supported membranes subjected to an accumulating ponding fluid. It is assumed that ponding fluid is available to fill an initial axi-symmetric deformation around the apex and that due to such accumulation deflections increase until under certain conditions collapse of the structure occurs.The problem is reduced to a set of differential equations which are solved numerically to determine the parameters defining the deflected wrinkled shape of the membrane. A simple expression for use in design of such structures is obtained and the results presented in non-dimensional graphic form.