Finite element modelling of cable networks with flexible supports

The objective of the paper is to present a mathematical model for analysis of prestressed cable structures with flexible contour beam. The proposed nu merical procedures are based on a discrete scheme according to the finite e lement method. A reliable model of the interaction of the flexible contour beam with the cable network enables the achievement of more efficient solut ions in the design analysis. Geometrical nonlinearity is accounted for in t he cable net substructure and the contour beam is modelled by linear beam e lements. Equations are solved by iterative methods and explicit time integr ation. The described numerical technique has been employed to model prestre ssing, static and dynamic behaviour. Theoretical results have been compared to experimental data and used in practical applications. (C) 2001 Civil-Co mp Ltd. and Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.