ABSTRACT
The paper outlines intentional big elastic shape transformations of nominally plane steel sheets folded in one direction and their use for shell roofing. The proposed innovation of the free roof forms results from diversified types and degrees of these transformations being possible to perform in a relatively wide continuous range. Specific geometrical and mechanical properties of the transformed sheets helpful in shaping of buildings are described. For the transformed sheets a computational model was created in the ADINA program. The intentional shell transformations of the transformed sheets degrade their mechanical properties needed for bearing a characteristic load. Thus, noticeable initial stresses and considerable deformations of plane fold flanges and webs occur while transforming. The paper is an attempt to formulate and analyze general topics related to the sheet shape changes. An innovative geometrical method of shaping of effective building free forms roofed with corrugated shells is also presented.
