Design-Construction of Umbrella-Shaped Precast Folded Plate Roofs for Pavilions

Based on a system developed in China, this article describes an umbreila-shaped precast, prestressed folded plate roof for pavilion buildings, which have been built successfully in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. The method relies on precast, prestressed flat plates and V-sections. These panels are assembled into an umbrella shape with joints formed and cast-in-place to fully integrate the structure. The author presents the design concept, structural design considerations, connections issues, panel production and erection, and joint closure. This folded plate roofing system can be used in other building applications.