A Numerical Investigation of the Structural Performance of Double-layered Grid Domes Using Software Packages

Abstract

In the 21th-century, large exhibitions halls covered by domes were constructed. Development of domes promoted by using metal structures, which has opened a new era for civil engineers in connection with the decision of maintenance problems of high strength and weight reduction of structures. Grid domes are a preferred structural form of roofs coverage. The paper aims to study the structural performance of double-layered grid domes using SAP2000 (v.14) and ETABS18. Four different types of double-layered grid domes considered in this work were the Schwedler dome (Type 1), three-way grid dome (Type 2), grid dome with different layers (Type 3), and grid dome with hexagonal patterns (Type 4). The configurations of grid domes were generated by Formian program software. The static linear analysis and design of mentioned grid domes were done and different load cases and their combinations were applied according to ASCE 7-10. It was observed that a double-layered grid dome with different layers (Type 3) was the most efficient in structural performance because the density of members per joint gave a very good distribution of axial forces distribution of the whole dome and then minimized the axial force in members and vertical deflections. The present study indicates that further detailed studies of the subject may lead to a more precise understanding of the performance of grid domes subjected to different load cases and this may bring about increased structural safety and serviceability and the economy in cost constructions.