Membrane Structures - Their Characteristics and Various Applications -

A few characteristics of membrane structures which the author thinks important for design are described on the basis of his experience in research and design of this kind of structures. Different in behaviors of air-supported and air-inflated structures are first explained for a better understanding of these structures. Attention is drawn to unfavorable behaviors of an air-beam when it is reinforced by diagonal members. The shallowest membrane structure which can be made as an airdome is pursued, and its application to a metal membrane dome is shown. Attempts which have been made by the author seeking for the possibility of membrane structures made of metal sheet, plastic film with and without reinforcement are described with realized examples. A 100m long jumbo carp is explained as an example of a flying membrane.