Recent developments in the computational modelling of textile membranes and inflatable structures

Abstract

The task of computer-modelling for stressed membrane surface structures is considered. Following a brief introduction the handling of inflatable structures are described. Finally, some evaluation tools are shown. Flexibility ellipsoids help to estimate the sensitivity of mechanical systems; redundancy numbers can be used to determine the accuracy for the production. The so-called force finding helps to find an appropriate state of prestress for primary structures which is shown in examples. It follows an automatic procedures for again and again tasks in the cutting pattern calculations.