| This paper applied nonlinear elastic theory to the tension structures, presented a finite element method with five node isoparametric element, used the polynomial of degree four as displacement functions and initial curve of the element. Assuming the cable to be ideal flexible, by means of Lagrangian method, authors derived the finite element equations, and used this method to compute tension structures. Comparing with the analytical method, authors found that this model leads to good precision, and can meet the need of the engineering. Model presented in this paper can be applied in the analysis of tension structures, such as: cable structures, cable domes, cable stayed towers and so forth. |