How do we analyze?

The usual analysis software used in architecture or engineering are generally not suitable for the calculation of tensile structures. Many analysis software are often structured in suit mode which consists of more or less independent modules some including tensile structures. WinTess, on the other hand, is a specialized software dedicated just to tensile membrane structures.

The reasons of using dedicated software:

  • speed
  • accuracy
  • more precise knowledge of the deformations
  • compliance with certain regulations

Analysis Methods

Tensile structures have two major characteristic properties:

  • They may have large displacements under loads.
  • They are composed of many objects that can only withstand tensile stresses. If these objects is subjected to another type of stress (compression, bending, etc.), then these objects deform and stop interacting with other objects of the structure (bent cable, wrinkled canvas, etc).

Both characteristics will generate non-linear behavior of the structures. We can no longer use directly proportional approach of most rigid structures in architecture which is composed of use steel, concrete, stone, etc. That leads us to a point at which “double load corresponds to twice deformation” is not valid anymore. To address the calculation of this type of non-linear structures, WinTess uses non-linear numerical methods designed and developed just for tensile membrane structures.

WinTess classifies components of structures as objects; bars (cables, tubes, etc.) and elements (surfaces, mass, etc.). WinTess can use different iterative methods to execute non-linear analysis like stiffness matrix, dynamic relaxation and force density. Although WinTess can use different methods, only the stiffness matrix method is activated as it is the fastest way to find the solution.