The hyperbolic paraboloid surface, because of its inherent beauty, graceful shape and several economic advantages has gained great popularity with engineers and architects. This type of shell has been found especially adaptable for covering large areas required for gymnasiums, exhibit pavilions, churches, auditoriums and factories. Until quite recently, the structural design of these shells has been based upon membrane theory which neglects the effects of bending. Most authorities now recommend a bending analysis and this has been confirmed by tests on actual structures. In this thesis a detailed bending analysis of a hyperbolic paraboloid shell has been carried out using the technique of Apeland. These theoretical analyses have been partially verified by the results of the experiments on three hyperbolic paraboloid shell models. This leads to an explanation of the geometry of deformation and an evaluation of critical stresses.

M. S.