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Analytical Investigation on Bio-Inspired Long-Span Steel Roof Truss for an Airport Terminal
Subject area: Science,Engineering and Technology · Area of research: Structural Engineering
DOI: https://doi.org/0.64388/IREV9I10-1717049
Abstract
The design of long-span airport roof structures demands high structural efficiency, reduced self-weight, and superior performance under complex loading conditions. Conventional steel trusses are often limited by linear load paths and inefficient stress distribution, restricting their effectiveness in large spans. This study proposes a novel bio-inspired steel truss system based on spider-web geometry, enabling multi-directional load transfer and enhanced structural redundancy. A 114 m span roof structure is developed using parametric modeling and evaluated through finite element analysis (FEA). The system integrates radial and circumferential members to replicate natural force-flow mechanisms, resulting in optimized stress distribution and improved load transfer efficiency. Structural analysis includes linear static analysis for deflection and stress evaluation, buckling analysis for global and member stability, and modal analysis to assess dynamic response and natural frequencies. The model is subjected to dead, live, and wind loads as per IS 875, with design verification based on IS 800:2007.A comparative study with a conventional Pratt truss reveals notable improvements in stiffness-to-weight ratio, buckling resistance, vibration performance, and overall material efficiency. The findings establish biomimicry as a high-performance, resilient, and sustainable solution for next-generation long-span structures.
How to cite this paper
@article{1717049,
author = {Vasanthasurya S, K. R. P. Satheesh Kumar},
title = {Analytical Investigation on Bio-Inspired Long-Span Steel Roof Truss for an Airport Terminal},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2026},
volume = {9},
number = {10},
pages = {3274-3279},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1717049.pdf},
abstract = {The design of long-span airport roof structures demands high structural efficiency, reduced self-weight, and superior performance under complex loading conditions. Conventional steel trusses are often limited by linear load paths and inefficient stress distribution, restricting their effectiveness in large spans. This study proposes a novel bio-inspired steel truss system based on spider-web geometry, enabling multi-directional load transfer and enhanced structural redundancy. A 114 m span roof structure is developed using parametric modeling and evaluated through finite element analysis (FEA). The system integrates radial and circumferential members to replicate natural force-flow mechanisms, resulting in optimized stress distribution and improved load transfer efficiency. Structural analysis includes linear static analysis for deflection and stress evaluation, buckling analysis for global and member stability, and modal analysis to assess dynamic response and natural frequencies. The model is subjected to dead, live, and wind loads as per IS 875, with design verification based on IS 800:2007.A comparative study with a conventional Pratt truss reveals notable improvements in stiffness-to-weight ratio, buckling resistance, vibration performance, and overall material efficiency. The findings establish biomimicry as a high-performance, resilient, and sustainable solution for next-generation long-span structures.},
month = {April},
doi = {https://doi.org/0.64388/IREV9I10-1717049}
}