Structural design of irregular curved lattice shells in China Available to Purchase

Irregular curved lattice shell structures are proving increasingly popular in China. However, the behaviour of irregular shells can be substantially different from regular shells in terms of strength, stiffness and stability characteristics as well as joint detailing. This paper reviews a number of projects in China in which irregular shells have been used. The structural system, force transfer path, vulnerable locations and strengthening measures are discussed. This is followed by a case study on a 45 m span greenhouse building featuring novel drum joints in the shell.