Research on slab-cable structure

Slab-cable structure, which is a new form of deployable structure, is proposed due to the disadvantages in practical application of current deployable structures; for instance, the excessive joints and units, and as a result, cumbersome unfolding procedures and unwillingness to provide space with large spans, complicated manufacturing processes which to some extent limit the wide application of deployable structures. Slab-cable structure is developed based on the three hinge arch system, which is one of the most reasonable type of structure when bearing uniform loads, and further decrease the degree of freedom of the structure in order to enhance structural rigidity and thus makes structure with high bearing capacity as well as stability. Slab-cable structure system, does not only give consideration to the advantages of conventional deployable structures such as availability of reusing, convenience of storage and transportation, but also make up the shortages: slab-cable structure has low requirements for the manufacturing accuracy of each units and technology during assembling because of its fewer units and simple joints; and it can be used to provide large inner space thanks to the arch-like format. Slab-cable structure is analyzed theoretically and experimentally in various aspects, in order to confirm this structure is reasonable and efficient so that wide application can be prospected.