HYPERBOLIC PARABOLOIDAL SADDLE DOME
Dome shaped structures of large span may be made from combinations of hyperbolic paraboloids, as sketched above. They may be square, rectangular, or diamond shaped. The shell depends for its strength on one of the corners being raised relative to the others. Therefore, this shape produces an enclosure with large tapered windows on the side. The thrusts in the edge members become very large and these members should be terminated at the ground in a thrust abutment, or a steel tie should be provided between corners.
In addition, another support is necessary on one of the ribs, preferably at one of the corners. Window mullions, if they are at the rib, should be made structural columns to prevent relative movement between the rib and the window.