Connections - Tensile Fabric Structures: Design, Analysis, and Construction - page 110

in cable terminations, anchor rods, or the membrane plate. In Figure 7-7, for
example, increase in the force in the catenary cable towards the top of the figure
relative to the force in the catenary towards the bottom of the figure will cause the
membrane plate to rotate in a clockwise direction.
Membrane plate connections are important visual singularities that deserve careful
attention to aesthetics. In Figure 7-7, fabrication expediency would suggest a
triangular membrane plate, with straight edges between the catenary cable and anchor
rod terminations. Necking these edges inward, as shown, provides a connection of
greater elegance, with a lightness in keeping with the general character of the
membrane structure as a whole.
7.2.5 Fabric Support at Rigid Element
Where fabric relies on a cable or steel member for support, it is usually carried by,
but not attached to, the member. Often a seam is placed to coincide with the member
in order to minimize the seam's visual impact (Figure 7-8). If not, and if the
supporting element (generally a cable) is small, a bias wear strip can be provided, as
in Figure 7-9. Plastic coated cables are preferred; however, bare cables can be used
when enclosed in a protective fabric cuff.
Fi g ur e 7-8
Pipe Arch with Fabric
Fi gure 7-9
Wear St rip at Cable