Self-Stress Implementation in Tensegrity Grids

Tensegrity systems are composed of any given set of cables connected to a set of struts in which cables connectivity must be able to stabilize the configuration. These systems as kinematically and statically indeterminate pin-jointed systems are characterized by mechanisms and self-stress states. Unlike the other reticulated systems, in tensegrity systems, unilateral behavior of cables causes some problems in determining the basis of compatible self-stress states. At the present study, self-stress implementation in tensegrity grids is presented in which for finding desired self-stress state, linear combination of the independent self-stress states is determined. Experimental study was conducted to verify the accuracy and validity of the numerical method. Considering the results of the present study, the self-stress design of these systems can be improved to obtain specific desired behavior. Also, using supporting constraints, the implementation of self-stress states can be performed in a reduced number of stages

Keywords:

Tensegrity systems , Self-stress design , Force density method , Tension setting