Form-finding of cable domes by simplified force density method

The principle of cable domes comes from the tensegrity concept proposed by Fuller, which pursues the idea that the isolated islands of struts exist in a sea of tensional cables. The form-finding – determination of the geometrical configuration and corresponding initial prestresses in the members – is a key step in the design of cable domes. The present paper reports on a study concerning the form-finding of cable domes. Making full use of symmetry, the simplified force density method is proposed to perform the form-finding of cable domes. The method can be used in the form-finding of cable domes including circular and rectangular Geiger type with and without a centre hoop, the Levy type, the sunflower type with and without a centre hoop and the bird's nest type. Compared with the common force density method, the calculations are simpler and quicker, and much less computer storage is required. Numerical results show that the method is simple to use, effective and reliable.