Splicing and kinematic analysis based on tensegrity with curved bars

Abstract

Tensegrity can be used as a spatial deployable structure; the folding efficiency varies with different configurations. In order to optimize the axial expansion performance of the tensegrity and realize high compression rate This paper proposes a tensegrity structure based on curved bars. First of all, we establish the mathematical model of the single-layer tensegrity with curved bars. Then we analyze the two splicing forms of the single-layer basic unit, including node-tonode splicing and node-to-saddle cable splicing. After that, in the dynamic’s software, we analyze the kinematic characteristics of the single-layer and double-layer tensegrity with curved bars during the compressive and deployable process. We find that the deformation of the bar members is much obvious than the cable members during the compression and deployable process. Finally, through the quantification of the internal forces of various types of members, it is verified that the various components of the structure will not be damaged during the compression and deployable process.