JPH building

Abstract

In its optimal form this type of structure possesses a streamlined aerodynamic profile in one direction and convex shaped shell type closure components in the orthogonal direction The main load carrying member of the system, the truncated ellipse structural rib provides most of the streamlined aerodynamic profile and the rest is provided by concave surfaces connected externally to the extremities of the ribs. Where it is possible, the truncated ellipse structural ribs and the rest of the streamlined aerodynamic profile are aligned with the anticipated direction of maximum wind velocity. Under self weight and superimposed dead loads, the structural response of the truncated elliptical rib is characterized by beam action in the middle area of the member, then increasing arching action (thrust) as the rib curvature increases, with further increasing in bending and shear action as the extremities of the rib are approached. The bending, shear, and thrust in the rib result in the exertion of horizontal forces in addition to vertical forces at the foundations. When the truncation points with their foundations are suitably located, the horizontal forces are directed inwards towards the center of the structure pushing the foundations towards each other. The rib then behaves like a closed elliptical ring capable of resisting substantial in plane forces. The horizontal forces on the foundations are resisted by the passive pressures developed between the foundations and the compacted base and sub-base materials. Because of its aerodynamic streamlined surface, when subject to wind loading in this direction, this structure attracts much less wind force than a conventional rectangular shaped structure. When the wind is in the orthogonal direction, the convex shaped gate or rear closure, takes the loading in compression and transmits it to the concrete pavement and the horizontal diagonal bracing. These loadings are substantially less than the corresponding loadings on a rectangular shaped structure. The ability of this structure to attract much lower wind forces than most other structures is the main focus of the invention. When the gates and the rear closure are not convex shaped components, but are more conventional in shape (such as plane surfaces), the wind forces on those surfaces are still smaller than those for a rectangular shaped building. The shape of the space between the rib and the floor makes it very suitable for accommodating airplanes, the latter being taller in the middle (tail) and lower at the wingtips.