Analysis of Selected Deter minate Str uctur al Systems

101

particularly in the aerodynamics field, thoroughly investigated and reported on the phenomenon. David Steinman
worked independently for 17 years, devising an integral
system of damping that subtly outwits the phenomenon
without a sacrifice in weight or economy.
With buildings, the problem and its solution are related to
the roof surface. What is to be used to span across the
cables? If it is some type of membrane, such as a tent structure, acting only in tension, then the problem of dynamic
instability begins immediately and may be solved by
pretensioning. If, however, the surface is to be wood
planking, metal decking, or a thin concrete slab, it is then
rigid and can resist normal (perpendicular) forces through
bending. The problem of flutter and movement is minimized for the surface but remains a concern for the main
cables (Figure 3.9).

The stabilizing factors for the primary cables can be dead

weight, a rigid surface that includes the main cables, a set
of secondary pretensioned cables with reverse curvature
from the main cables, or restraining cables (Figure 3.10).

Figure 3.9

Figure 3.10(a)

Increase of dead weight.

Stabilizing the roof structure.