Investigation on the Effects of Depth-to-Span Ratio of Tensegrity Flat Grids on Their Seismic Behavior

Abstract

Tensegrity state is a stable self-equilibrated state of a spatial system that contains a non-continuous set of compressive elements (struts) inside a continuous set of self-tensioned elements (cables). At the present study, the seismic behavior of double layer flat tensegrity grids consisted of quadrangular tensegrity prisms, have been investigated by carrying out nonlinear full transient time-history dynamic analysis. In order to determine the effects of depth-to-span ratio on seismic behavior of flat tensegrity grids, several non-linear time history analyses have been performed by ANSYS finite element program. Three 1/10, 1/12 & 1/15 grid depth-to-span ratios have been considered for investigation. Then the effects of depth-to-span ratio on seismic behavior of tensegrity flat grids have been determined. It is shown that these systems are sensitive and vulnerable against seismic excitations. Based on the obtained results, some design recommendations have been presented regarding to the seismic behavior of these systems.