Non-linear static analysis and design of Tensegrity domes

In this paper, a non-linear structural analysis software with pro-processing and post-recessing function is proposed by the author. The software incorporating the functions of the structural analysis and geometrical design of Tensegrity structures. Using this software, Cable Dome is analyzed as a prototype, a comprehensive study on the structural behavior of Tensegrity domes is presented in detail. Design methods of Tensegrity domes were proposed. Based on the analysis, optimizing design was performed. Several new Tensegrity domes with different geometrical design scheme are proposed, the structural analysis of the new schemes is also conducted. The analysis result shows that the proposed new forms of the Tensegrity domes are reasonable for practical applications.