Global and local stability of reticulated domes based on the valency of structural elements

In general, the global stability of reticulated domes is determined by the parameters such as joint stiffness, member slenderness, rise to span ratio, and support condition. Member connectivity plays a vital role, and its effect on global and local stability is seldom considered. Hence, this paper examines the global and local stability of single-layer reticulated dome configuration based on the valences of vertices, edges, faces, and cells. These valences are derived from the interrelation between the elements within a configuration. Valency is defined as the number of specified elements that connected to a different element. The valency plays a vital role in determining the global stability of a reticulated dome as these interconnections make sure the smooth flow of load from the applied location to the support. Hence, global and local stability of different single-layer and double-dome configurations with different valences of vertices, edges, faces, and cells are examined under different loading and support conditions. Different valences for selected dome configurations are calculated first. Then the global stability and the local stability of the dome configurations under different loading and support conditions are analysed. The relation between the valences and the stability of dome configurations are investigated from the results obtained. The result helps to identify different dome configurations which are stable under various load conditions. The information on valences helps to identify the type of failure in the domes and reduce the probability of failure by altering valences to obtain an efficient dome configuration.

Learning Objectives:
Identifying the best valences for different elements for improving the stability of reticulated domes.

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