ABSTRACT
This chapter contains general characteristics and problems of tensile structures, together with descriptions and examples of each structure type. One of the main characteristics of tensile structures is that they alter their form depending on the changing load. These are called funicular structures. Cables and suspension structures usually consist of very different types of structural elements. The chapter analyses structures of four different examples in order to show the plurality of architectural solutions. These examples are Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Former Federal Reserve Bank Building, Dorton Arena, and Yale Hockey Rink. Since every structure is different, structural guidelines for cables and suspension structures have to be kept at a general level. The cable truss is the main structural element that forms bicycle-wheel structures and cable-truss systems. Membrane structures have similarities with cable structures. Most of the contemporary pneumatic structures have a steel or aluminium structure in them in order to avoid wind instability problems and to span longer distances.
