Pneumatic structures are membrane structures comprised of the volume of inflated air. They are extremely lightweight structures. An existing internal pressure prestresses the enveloping membranes that are subjected to tension, and counteracts the external loads. The membranes usually consist of ETFE foils.
Fundamentally, we can distinguish between the air-supported single-layer membrane structures and the air-inflated multilayer membrane structures. Since there are other substances that are also used as the supporting medium in some cases, the terms medium-supported and medium-filled are also used.
In the case of single-layer membrane structures, often referred to as air halls, the increased internal pressure (overpressure) in the entire hall interior counteracts the atmospheric air pressure.
In the case of multilayer membrane structures, often referred to as pneumatic cushions, there are at least two membrane layers surrounding the enclosed air volume. The membranes are prestressed and stabilized by the prevailing positive or negative pressure in the air volume.
Such structural systems are called low-pressure systems because the required overpressure or underpressure in the enveloped air volume is rather low with the maximum of about 1,000 Pa. The counterpart to these are hose structures (high-pressure systems).
The Dlubal Structural Analysis Wiki explains technical terms used in structural analysis and design. The terms are given in alphabetical order and are usually used in Dlubal Software.
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Pneumatic Structure
Main Program
The new generation of 3D FEA software is used for the structural analysis of members, surfaces, and solids.
Add-On
The Form-Finding add-on finds the optimal shape of members subjected to axial forces and tension-loaded surface models. The shape is determined by the equilibrium between the member axial force or the membrane stress and the existing boundary conditions.
Main Program
Structural engineering software for a finite element analysis (FEA) of planar and spatial structural systems consisting of plates, walls, shells, members (beams), solids, and contact elements
Add-On Module
Form-finding of tensile membrane and cable structures
Add-On Module
Generation of cutting patterns for tensile membrane structures
Add-On
The Steel Design add-on performs the ultimate and serviceability limit state design checks of steel members according to various standards.