Four-step Tensioning Construction Method and Experimental Study for Rigid Bracing Dome

Rigid bracing dome is a new pre-stressed space structure. In the study, according to the features of the new space structure, a four-step tensioning construction method is proposed and corresponding tensioning control principle is also given. The rigid bracing dome designed in the experimental study has a diameter of 6 m and is equally divided into eight parts in the circumferential direction. The four-step tensioning construction method is explored in detail. The synchronous symmetric tensioning schemes in eight directions, four directions and two directions are studied respectively. The deviations of the experimental model are analyzed by using the orthogonal test design method. The key experimental problems are analyzed to propose corresponding solutions. The construction method is simple and efficient. An appropriate symmetric tensioning scheme can be chosen according to the requirements of practical projects. The deviation of outer ridge cable force is mainly caused by the following factors: vertical coordinates of support and rods, and the lengths of outer ridge cable, inner ridge cable, inner ring rod, and outer ring rod. The coordinate deviations of center rods are mainly affected by the lengths of outer ring rod and inner ridge cable. The construction method and corresponding solutions can be used to guide engineering practices.