Interactive Dynamic Design and Analysis of Tensegrity Systems

Abstract

In this paper, an implementation of the discrete element method is presented with applications in interactive design and dynamic non linear analysis of tensegrity systems, a class of lightweight reticulate space structures. These systems are simulated efficiently using an explicit time integration scheme coupled to a 3D visualization interface, which brings the possibility to interactively model a structure, to follow its evolution in real time and to perform advanced structural analysis. To validate and justify this particular approach in the case of tensegrity systems, a static analysis comparison with other structural analysis softwares is carried out on a representative example. The benefits and versatility of the method are further illustrated through simulations of planar and deployable structures.