Novel hybrid lightweight tension strip structures

A novel tension strip structure (TSS) is proposed to combine the benefit of high strength thin struts and membrane fabric. The design adopts curved strips or struts with restraint by internal membranes to avoid early global buckling. Analytical formulation based on curved beam on elastic foundations is proposed to predict the structural response of TSS. The finite element analysis results agree well with those using analytical modeling. Internal air with high pressure could be adopted to enhance the structure by preventing early local buckling of struts. The structure can be used for permanent or semi-permanent purposes.