A novel form-finding method for cable-net structures using variable-length cable elements based on absolute nodal coordinate formulation

Cable-net structures rely on the pretension of the cables to provide stiffness to bear external loads and ensure stability. The shape and internal forces exhibit mutual coupling, making form-finding very challenging. A novel form-finding method for cable-net structures is proposed in this work. The cable-net structure is modeled by variable-length and constant-length absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) cable elements connected by spherical joints and sliding joints. Cable lengths and node positions undergo adaptive adjustment through feedback control. The variable-length elements facilitate the cable length adjustment to ensure uniform tension distribution. The translation velocities of nodes regulate the boundary nodes’ positions to satisfy the preset boundary conditions. The key advantage of the present method is that it is insensitive to initial conditions and can be easily applied to other cable-net structures with more complex shapes. The validity and accuracy of the present form-finding method are demonstrated through several numerical examples.