Effect of a Cable Rupture on Tensegrity Systems

Abstract

A numerical investigation of the effect of a sudden rupture of a cable component in a Tensegrity assemblage is performed using nonlinear dynamic time history analysis to determine element axial forces and nodal displacements responses of the system. Details of the modeling of the Tensegrity elements as well as the numerical scheme used to integrate the equations of motion are discussed. The investigation is carried on a continuous struts Tensegrity system. The system is constituted by an assemblage of five expanded-octahedron basic modules. The simulation of the sudden rupture of a single cable is realized by replacing this element by its tension, applied as an external force to the extremities of the struts to which this element is attached. This force is then removed instantaneously provoking a load imbalance in the system. This imbalance acts as a triggering mechanism sending an impulsive shock to the damaged structure resulting in a damped vibration motion and large magnitude element axial forces.