Loading The Structure

Simulated application of loads

Even with a rectilinear building it is difficult to asses the loads that may be imposed due to the variables of weather and in particular wind, which can exhibit unpredictable eddies and turbulence. When the force calculation is made more difficult due to the three dimensional form of a membrane there are only three ways to assess the potential forces.

One is to apply an overall pressure co-efficient (uniform load) which makes allowance for most conditions. While factors of safety are a vital part of engineering, over engineering can be detrimental to a project and not just on the grounds of cost. We use software applications which break down the surface of the membrane, sector by sector and apply a simulated load determined by direction of force and angle of approach. This provides a more accurate method of determining potential force.

This of course also makes it easier to comply with building code in the chosen local. Portable structures rarely have snow load applied to them unless used regularly in such climates.

Rain can be an isse if the membrane is being rolled out on the floor and it fills with water. Before long there can be the equivalent of two ro three cars weight laying in the membrane. It can take hours to remove the water from such a situation.