Abstract：In this paper, nonlinear finite element analysis on four experimental models with different joint types and rise-span ratios of reticulated glulam shell is carried out with the Beam189 element, which is a nonlinear beam element, to simulate the semi-rigid joint in ANSYS. Then the load-deflection curve, failure modes and ultimate bearing capacity of finite element analysis and test results are compared to judge the feasibility of multi-segment beam method in stability analysis of timber reticulated shells. The research finds that: (1) The multi-segment beam method is in good agreement with the test results. The multi-segment beam analysis method can effectively reveal the failure mechanism of timber reticulated shells; (2)The rise-span ratio is the main factor affecting the failure mode of single-layer reticulated timber shells. The models with larger rise-span ratio are prone to strength failure, the models with smaller rise-span ratio are prone to stability failure, and the influence of joint stiffness on the models with smaller rise-span ratio is more obvious; (3) In elastic-plastic analysis, the ultimate bearing capacity of reticulated timber shells is suggested to be 40% of elastic analysis. The research results can provide a reference for the further study of the nonlinear stability bearing capacity of timber reticulated shells.
