Static Stability Analysis of Single-Layer Reticulated Spherical Shell with Kiewitt-Sunflower Type

In this study, we use a large-scale parameter analysis and linear regression method to characterize the static stability of Kiewitt-sunflower-type single-layer reticulated spherical shell. Based on more than 15,000 numerical cases of elastic–plastic load–displacement process, and the investigations on the influence of buckling and instability mode, rise-span and ring-numbers ratio, efficiency of the structure, load distribution, support conditions, size of the initial geometric imperfection and distribution patterns are proceeded. We summarize the key effect for stable performance of structure, and develop the formulation to calculate the ultimate capacity of stability. The results show that Kiewitt-sunflower type single-layer reticulated spherical shell is sensitive to defect, and different distribution patterns of geometry defect lead to different structural buckling. The ultimate stability bearing capacity can be improved by increasing the rise-span and ring-numbers ratio. The asymmetrical load distribution has little effect on the stability. The most unfavorable eigenmode is arbitrary, and it is generally not the lowest order. We summarize the key effect for stable performance of structure, and develop the formulation to calculate the ultimate capacity of stability.