Design of space truss structures

Space truss design usually involves two main assumptions: that truss members are pin-ended, and compression members possess brittle post-buckling characteristics. The validity of these assumptions in the design of a new group of space trusses with continuous chords and eccentric joints is questionable. With chord member continuity and the consequent improvement in compression member behaviour, current design practice might be too conservative. In this paper, it is shown that substantial improvements in overall truss strength have resulted when the true member end conditions are considered, thus indicating potential savings in truss weight with considerable magnitudes.