On decoding the structural behaviour of hybrid cable bending-active units in fastening, prestress and load-bearing state

Abstract

This article examines the structural behaviour of six structural units composed of single, simply paired and paired-interconnected bending-active members, coupled with a single cable element. The form-found curvilinear shape of the members is achieved through fastening by contracting auxiliary elements, as well as through further deformation by decreasing the cable’s length. The overall structural behaviour of the units is investigated based on a step-by-step finite-element analysis. All units are evaluated with regard to the components’ stresses and deformations developed during the form-finding process and subsequent external vertical loading, for different possible section thickness values of the elastic members.