Evaluation of membrane structure designs using boundary web cables for uniform tensioning

A design challenge in large membrane space structures is to apply pretension as uniformly as possible throughout the membrane, without increasing structural mass and volume. The present paper begins with a brief review of existing designs of membranes surrounded by catenary cables and shear compliant borders. The paper then introduces weblike cables that surround the membrane, and analyzes the consequent reduction in mass and volume. In addition, a series of quasi-static finite element analyses demonstrates the attenuation of wrinkles by the web cables when support points are perturbed. The paper concludes that the proposed design preserves a biaxially prestressed membrane even in disturbed conditions, with a minimal suspension-cable mass and volume.