A numerical displacement-based approach for the structural analysis of cable nets

A new displacement-based approach is proposed herein to predict the behaviour of pre-tensioned cable nets subjected to vertical loads. The cables are contained in horizontal plane and have a single degree of freedom in each node, where loads are applied. The model is based on the equilibrium equations of an infinitesi mal cable-element, which are solved by considering the catenary equation under the hypothesis of (a) zero bending stiffness, (b) linear elastic behaviour of materials, (c) small deformation, and (d) the existence of perfect hinges in each node. More precisely, a finite-difference numerical procedure is introduced in order to evaluate nodal displacements related to a set of applied vertical forces. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is then assessed by comparing the numerical results with those obtained by other models found in the current literature. Finally, the proposed approach is used to design new and more efficient insulating panels for the green house technology.