05-01-2016, 03:43 PM
Shells can be defined as curved structures capable of transmitting loads in more than two directions to supports.Loads applied to shell surfaces are carried to the ground by the development of compressive, tensile, and shear stresses acting in the in-plane direction of the surface.
LONG SPAN DOMES
Constructions of spherical domes by using inflated membranes as forms have proven to be a viable solution to many problems.The largest shells constructed are now less than 300 feet in diameter. For very large spans, a grid constructed with pans is necessary so that the dome will be stiff enough and still weigh less than a uniform depth.