STRUCTURAL MEMBRANES 2025

Numerical Calculation Methods in Membrane Engineering

  • Lang, Rostislav (FEM consulting)
  • Niemeier, Andreas (Dlubal Software GmbH)

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This presentation introduces numerical methods for the design and analysis of membrane structures as implemented in the structural analysis software RFEM. An initial overview of available computational tools will be provided to outline the range of modeling and simulation possibilities. Particular attention will then be given to key aspects of membrane analysis, including strategies for establishing equilibrium prestress within the fabric and the automated detection of ponding effects under climatic loading. In addition, methods for considering snow load distribution according to the slope of the membrane surface will be discussed. The presentation highlights both the theoretical background and practical applications, offering insight into advanced approaches for the reliable and efficient analysis of membrane structures