MEMBRANE STRUCTURES

Frame membrane structure

This type of membrane structure is composed by a steel frame or other types of frame
structure covered with membrane to form roofs or exterior walls.
Since it is structurally stable and the openings can be formed flexibly, this type of
membrane structure is highly economic and widely used for multiple applications,
regardless of the sizes.

Odate Jukai Dome

Suspension membrane structure

This type of membrane structure is formed mainly by the membrane material, and the
basic form is the suspension structure.
It is abundant in rise and fall on the surface, so it has superior designability which takes
advantage of the uniqueness of the curved surfaces. It contributes to build an aesthetic
architectural structure that has a strong impact.
Air-supported membrane structure
This type of membrane structure uses the air pressure that is blown continuously into
inside of the roofs and/or walls made of membrane materials to inflate the membrane until
becoming stiff to support its self weight and all other surface loads.
It is highly economic and represents excellent workability in creating a wide open space
inside a dome-shape structure that is supported by air pressure, without using columns
and beams.
SHELL STRUCTURES

A shell is a thin-structural element used in a building composed of curved sheets of materials

dividing the interior space of the structure from its exterior. The shell elements are typically
curved and assembled into a large structure. It is made of reinforced concrete and serves
both as a structure and covering. Shell structures are self-supporting and used to cover a
large area of span without any supports of beams, columns, and walls. Its efficiency is based
on its curvature (single or double), which allows different stress paths and gives the
optimum form for transmission of many different load types. A single curvature shell is
monoclastic, which can be curved in one direction and comes in the form of barrel vaults or
conoid shells. Double curvature is synclastic and anticlastic which comes in the form of a
sphere or hyperboloid.

Components of a shell structure;

• The structural skeleton and foundation

• Base plant
• Building cladding
• The building envelope
• Fire barriers
 • Fire detection system
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Pathways, boundary walls,
• Pavement, and fencing
• Landscaping
• Signage
The main purpose of constructing the shell structure is that it will cover a larger area of the
building.

Advantages of Shell structures

1. A light form of construction

2. Faster construction
3. An easy method of fabrication
4. Waste reduction as no requirement of fittings
5. Covers a large area
6. Aesthetic in appearance
7. Energy efficient
8. Lesser material usage
Types of Shell Structure

Cylindrical Shell

These shells are the primary structural component of both aquatic and airborne systems.
Frames or ribs are also used to stiffen these structures. Some examples of typical
cylindrical shells include the :

• Semi-ellipse.
• Arch circle.
• Cycloid catenary.
• Horseshoe form.
Multiple Cylindrical Shells

Thes cylindrical shells comprise a of cylindrical shells that are parallel and transversely
continuous.
North Light Shells

This shell construction is used to provide vast areas of north light windows for factories that
need good natural lighting. This kind of shell is typically used as a roof in the case of
factories.

Asymmetrical Cylindrical Shells

This shell arrangement is asymmetrical across the crown.

Barrel Shells:

A barrel shell is a collection of very thin arches that have the same compressive power. It
can withstand very large quantities of weight as long as the weight is spread proportionally.

Barrel Vaults

A barrel vault is a continuous vaulted form that could be semi-circular in shape, resembling
the roof of a cave, or pointing at the apex. It is usually built by a sequence of edge arches
or vaults.

Short Shells and Long Shells

Short shells are those with a short period of length and long shells Where the period length
is greater than the width, the shell shape is referred to as a long shell.

Domes

A dome is a structured framework that occupies an area that is somewhat square or circular.
The domes are connected to a surface formed by some curve rotating around a vertical line.

Intersection Shell Structure

The structural effects of the intersection shell are dependent upon the angle of intersection
of the surface.

Shell Arches

Small shell thicknesses can be rendered much smaller than an arc if the stresses are mostly
compressive. Shells are not a very effective framework for high bending moment values.
Translation Shells

A translation shell is created by moving a vertical curve over another vertical curve.

Combination Shells

It is a combination of shell, solid, and frame construction. A sturdy foundation beneath a

home supports the weight of the structure. A brick, concrete, or other material shell is
supported by a wood or metal frame. The frame is the skeleton of the house. It provides
stability and support for the walls and roof.

Applications of shell structures

The shell structure is typically found in nature as well as in classical architecture.

• Industrial structures: – silos, tanks, cooling towers, reactor vessels etc.

• Auditoriums and food courts
• Architectural special structures

References
Facilitator, C. (2022, JULY 8). Shell Structure; advantages, types and applications. Retrieved from
https://constrofacilitator.com/shell-structure-advantages-types-and-applications/

Japan, M. S. (2015). MSAJ. Retrieved from http://www.makukouzou.or.jp/en-introduction/en-

introduction002/#:~:text=Frame%20membrane%20structure,form%20roofs%20or%20exterior%
20walls.

Othilia, G. (2013, MAY 5). GEODESIC STRUCTURES. Retrieved from International Journal of Education and
Research: https://www.ijern.com/images/May-2013/23.pdf