Coupling imperfections effect on load-carrying capacity of single-layer cylindrical reticulated shell

Load-carrying capacity of single-layer reticulated shell is sensitive to imperfections. To clarify the coupling effect of nodal deviation, member imperfection and eccentricity on load-carrying capacity of reticulated shell, a mechanical model incorporating with the three kinds of imperfection and its realization method are firstly well-elaborated, followed by investigating the coupling effect on stability of reticulated shell by a large number of numerical simulations. Finally, the Modified Consistent Imperfection Mode Method (MCIMM) is developed to determine the most unfavorable combination of the first two kinds of imperfection and the three kinds of imperfection. The results indicate that load-carrying capacity of reticulated shell is obviously affected by member imperfection, and gradually decreases with the increase of member imperfection. Stability of reticulated shell with smaller nodal deviation is more sensitive to member imperfection. Member bowed direction has an evident effect on limit load of reticulated shell, and dispersion degree of limit load gradually increases with the increment of member imperfection. Limit load approximately linearly decreases with the increase of member eccentricity. Besides nodal deviation, the coupling effect of member imperfection and eccentricity cannot be neglected and should be considered whether nodal deviation is large or small. The developed MCIMM is feasible and efficient to determine the most unfavorable combination of the first two kinds of imperfection and the three kinds of imperfection. Initial overall stiffness and limit load of reticulated shell gradually decrease with the increase of member imperfection and/or member eccentricity.