In contrast to conventional structures, the final shape of Membrane Structures is only determined by the statics. This means that the design planning must be carried out in close coordination with the static analysis in order to achieve an economically and creatively optimal conception. Due to the long service life of the materials, membrane structures are classified as permanent structures like conventional structures. They are therefore subject to approval in accordance with the standards of the individual countries and must correspond to the load assumptions contained in the respective building regulations. Regional regulations such as wind and snow loads, for example, must be taken into account, as well as climatic characteristics.
The actual static calculation is based on the data described above, which resulted from the form determination. Within the scope of extensive calculations, which have to take into account not only the different load cases but also the three-dimensiopnality of the roofing and the biaxial expansion behaviour of the material, the final verifiable static calculation is prepared.
The statics of the membrane determine the requirements for the overall detailed design of the Membrane Structure. Edge geometry and detail design used for load transfer are defined here. The same applies to load transfer points in the load-bearing structure. It should be noted that membrane structures are subject to deformation when exposed to external loads (e. g. wind and snow). These must be absorbed by the connection points to the load-bearing structure, to existing conventional structures or in foundations.
In contrast to conventional constructions, the weight of the material (approx. 1-1.5 kg/m²) is negligible. This results in a high susceptibility to wind loads, which is compensated by the static equilibrium of a membrane construction consisting of shaping and pre-stressing, but which places special demands on the supporting structure and the foundations in relation to the application of load. In contrast to traditional construction methods, the bearing capacity of the subsoil is only in a few exceptional cases decisive for the dimensioning of the foundations. Depending on the soil conditions, tensile loads can be dissipated by heavy-duty foundations or special ground anchors.
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