Special Structures: Past, Present, and Future
Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 128, Issue 6
Abstract
Special structures are landmarks and testimonials to the achievements of the structural engineering profession. They are true three-dimensional representations of our equilibrium equations and affirmations of our analytical techniques, design standards and construction practices. They include many types of structures, such as: space frames or grids; cable-and-strut and tensegrity; air-supported or air-inflated; self-erecting and deployable; cable net; tension membrane; lightweight geodesic domes; folded plates; and thin shells. This work celebrates the ASCE’s sesquicentennial by providing a historical perspective on how special structures have evolved, their state-of-practice in the dawn of the 21st century, and a projection of their potential trends and evolution into the future.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 128 • Issue 6 • June 2002
Pages: 691 - 709
Copyright
Copyright © 2002 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Nov 8, 2001
Accepted: Mar 7, 2002
Published online: May 15, 2002
Published in print: Jun 2002
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