Latest revision as of 13:20, 18 January 2019

Published in Finite Elements in Analysis and Design Vol. 45 (6-7), pp. 395-405, 2009
doi: 10.1016/j.finel.2008.11.008

Abstract

A new methodology for the geometrically nonlinear analysis of orthotropic membrane structures using triangular finite elements is presented. The approach is based on writing the constitutive equations in the principal fiber orientation of the material. A direct consequence of the fiber orientation strategy is the possibility to analyze initially out-of-plane prestressed membrane structures. An algorithm to model wrinkling behavior is also described. Examples of application to a number of membrane structures are presented.