Comparación entre el análisis 2-D y el Método de la Densidad de Fuerzas (discreto) para el equilibrio en estructuras de membrana

This paper deals with the equilibrium problem of a membrane, presenting a comparison between the well-known 1-D discrete Force Density Method, using spatial cable networks as membrane surface approximations, and the 2-D continuous analysis of such a surface. Although Force Density is a practical and powerful method in structural membrane design, it will be checked that the 2-D continuous analysis is not only more accurate and general but necessary for new structural membrane applications such as footbridges. In this way, once summarized the discrete Density Force Method, the continuous approach is presented. Then, a comparison process between both methods is proposed, being developed for specific membrane examples. Finally, some conclusions are pointed out.