Effect of member length imperfections on triple-layer space trusses

It is almost impossible to produce a space truss assembly with complete precision, With the hundreds of members and joints these structures typically contain, it is inevitable that some of these members will have some imperfections, primarily in the form of lack of fit. This paper presents a study on the effects of member imperfections on triple-layer space trusses. Imperfections are considered in different top, middle, bottom and diagonal members in an attempt to identify the most critical areas in which no imperfect members should be used. The use of composite action between the space truss and a top concrete slab in enhancing truss tolerance to member imperfections is also investigated. The conclusions of this study could be beneficial to triple-layer truss design and construction. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.