Abstract
This paper is dedicated to the extended solid (continuum) model of tensegrity structures or lattices. Tensegrity is defined as a pin-joined truss structure with an infinitesimal mechanism stabilized by a set of self-equilibrated normal forces. The proposed model is inspired by the continuum model that matches the first gradient theory of elasticity. The extension leads to the second- or higher-order gradient formulation. General description is supplemented with examples in 2D and 3D spaces. A detailed form of material coefficients related to the first and second deformation gradients is presented. Substitute mechanical properties of the lattice are dependent on the cable-to-strut stiffness ratio and self-stress. Scale effect as well as coupling of the first and second gradient terms are identified. The extended solid model can be used for the evaluation of unusual mechanical properties of tensegrity lattices.
Highlights
The extended solid model can be used for the evaluation of unusual mechanical properties of tensegrity lattices
Tensegrity structures or lattices [1,2,3], due to their special and unusual properties, constitute an interesting concept, the use of which is promising on various scales of considerations in aerospace, civil and mechanical engineering, etc
The present paper describes an extended continuum model and provides a detailed form of material coefficients related to the first and second deformation gradients for selected tensegrity modules or lattices
Summary
Tensegrity structures or lattices [1,2,3], due to their special and unusual properties, constitute an interesting concept, the use of which is promising on various scales of considerations in aerospace, civil and mechanical engineering, etc. Tensegrity pin-joined truss lattices, planar and spatial, can be relatively described by means of a discrete model, using the finite element method [29,30] or directly formulating the task algebraically [31,32,33] Both techniques are formally precise and make it possible to include in the description the influence of self-equilibrated normal force systems (self-stress) on the structural response. Evident identification of scale effects requires validation through a series of tensegrity-based benchmark problems carefully selected for the area of potential applications, e.g., in aerospace engineering or civil/mechanical engineering This task is beyond the scope of this study
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