Study on the static stability of aluminum alloy single-layer spherical reticulated shell

In order to study the static stability of an aluminum alloy single-layer spherical reticulated shell, a static loading test of a K6 reticulated shell with 3 rings, a 4 m span, and a 1/7 height-to-span ratio is carried out. The deformation, internal force distribution, and failure mode of the reticulated shell model are discussed. By comparing the monotone tensile test and simulation of the single member, the simulation method of rivet used in the finite element model (FEM) is obtained, and the bending stiffness and axial slip stiffness of gusset joints are calculated. Considering the joint stiffness in the FEM, the simulation results and the test fit well, indicating that the influence of the joint stiffness on the static stability of the reticulated shell cannot be ignored. In addition, by comparing the effect of different parameters of joint stiffness, the axial slip stiffness should be considered in the stability design of reticulated shells.