The aim of the present research is to generate optimized configurations of a closed loop system made of GFRP rods that create a bending-active dome structure and to test its behavior at two different scales. This system differs from other bending-active structures mainly because it is a global, closed system, meaning it starts and ends and the same point. The optimization is realized by combining a physics solver and an evolutionary algorithm in order to evaluate many configurations to detect and analyze possible patterns that could establish design thresholds of this kind of system. The optimization focuses on generating configurations with minimized displacements and rod length.

The goal is to present a series of solutions of varying results for each dome size in order to understand the factors that determine its behavior. Additionally, this document will present an alternative method of building a bending-active dome structure that could be built with accessible materials and little manpower. The methodology is based on previous explorations done on the subject, which revealed the feasibility of this structure and uncovered various technicalities associated with its design and construction.

Keywords: Deployability, loop dome, membrane, structural analysis, bending active, optimization

Loop dome, Elastic bending of GFRP rods in a continuous looped system.