Dynamic Similarity of Six Bar Ball Tensegrity Structure in Compression and Expansion Processes

Abstract

Tensegrity structures have identical members in an orientation that have correlated dynamics under external force. To study this interdependent dynamics in different members in compression and expansion processes, it is vital to analyze the dynamics of the whole structure. In this study, six bar tensegrity structure was studied under compression and expansion, and interdependent movement of different members of the structure in both processes was obtained. First, the relationship between external force and members force densities was analytically developed based on the assumption that each bar moves with the same distance when an external force is applied on the six bar tensegrity ball structure along one plane that either compresses or expands the structure. Then, two individual simulations were carried out to analyze the movement of each bar in compression and expansion under the effect of external force, and elongation in all strings was studied in both processes. Finally, comparative dynamic study of different members in compression and expansion of the structure with the effect of external force was performed, which were categorized according to dynamic symmetry.