Safety Analysis of Membrane Structure under Dynamic Wind Load

Study on the safety of membrane structure under dynamic wind load was carried out both theoretically and practically. Based on random process theory, wind fields with spatial correlativity were simulated in computer. The finite element formula for geometrically nonlinear dynamic response analysis of membrane structure was also established. On the basis of this dynamic time history response analyses were carried out for a practical membrane project. From its displacement time history curve, it was found that when the wind velocity was under a certain critical wind velocity, the structure vibration was stable, and the structure was safety; otherwise when the wind velocity was beyond the critical wind velocity, the vibration became unstable and the structure might be destroyed. It is pointed out that raising the prestress in membrane or the curvature of membrane surface could effectively avoid structure damage under dynamic wind loads. It is suggested that for the safety of membrane structures under wind load the measures should be taken in the process of design and constructions.