Strain Analysis of Membrane Structures for Photovoltaic Integration in Built Environment

Vuk Milošević, Janusz Marchwiński and Elena Lucchi ()
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Vuk Milošević: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
Janusz Marchwiński: Faculty of Architecture, University of Technology and Arts in Applied Sciences in Warsaw, 00-792 Warsaw, Poland
Elena Lucchi: Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile e Architettura (DICAr), University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 3, 1-34

Abstract: The integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems into tensioned membrane structures presents a significant advancement for sustainable applications in the built environment. However, a critical technical challenge remains in the substantial strains induced by external loads, which can compromise both PV efficiency and the structural integrity of the membrane. Current design methodologies prioritize stress, deflection, and ponding analysis of tensioned membranes. Strain behavior of whole structures, a key factor for ensuring long-term performance and compatibility of PV-integrated membranes, has been largely overlooked. This study addresses this gap by examining the whole membrane structure designed for PV integration, with the aim of optimizing the membrane to provide suitable conditions for efficient energy transfer while minimizing membrane strains. For this purpose, it provides a comprehensive strain analysis for full-scale hyperbolic paraboloid (hypar) membrane structures under various design parameters and external loads. Employing the Finite Element Method (FEM) via Sofistik software, the research examines the relationship between load type, geometry, material properties, and patterning direction of membranes to understand their performance under operational conditions. The findings reveal that strain behavior in tensioned membrane structures is strictly influenced by these parameters. Wind loads generate significantly higher strain values compared to snow loads, with positive strains nearly doubling and negative strains tripling in some configurations. Larger structure sizes and increased curvature amplify strain magnitudes, particularly in parallel patterning, whereas diagonal patterning consistently reduces strain levels. High tensile-strength materials and optimized prestress further reduce strains, although edge type has minimal influence. By systematically analyzing these aspects, this study provides practical design guidelines for enhancing the structural and operational efficiency of PV-integrated tensioned membrane structures in the built environment.

Keywords: photovoltaics; tensioned membranes; strains; architectural membranes; flexible photovoltaic (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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