A methodology for the investigation of tensegrity structures prestressability is presented. The methodology is aimed at identifying particular prestressable configurations for which the prestressability conditions can be expressed in a simple form. Examples of the application of the methodology to a class of tensegrity structures, called tensegrity towers, are presented.
References
1.
EmmerichD. G., 1996. Emmerich on self-tensioning structures, International Journal of Space Structures, 11 (1 and 2), 29–36.
2.
SkeltonR. E.SultanC., 1997. Controllable tensegrity, a new class of smart structures, Mathematics and Control in Smart Structures, Proc. SPIE 4th Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, 3039, 166–177.
3.
SultanC.SkeltonR. E., 1997. Integrated design of controllable structures, Adaptive Structures and Material Systems, Proc. ASME Intl. Congress and Exposition, 54, 27–37.
4.
SultanC.SkeltonR. E., 1998. Force and torque smart tensegrity sensor, Mathematics and Control in Smart Structures, Proc. SPIE 5th Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, 3323, 357–368.
5.
SultanC., 1999. Modelling, design, and control of tensegrity structures with applications, Ph.D. dissertation, Purdue University, School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 200 pages.
6.
SultanC.CorlessM.SkeltonR. E., 2001. The prestressability problem of tensegrity structures. Some analytical solutions, International Journal of Solids and Structures, 38(30–31), 5223–5252.
7.
PellegrinoS.CalladineC. R., 1986. Matrix analysis of statically and kinematically indetermined frameworks. International Journal of Solids and Structures, 22(4), 409–428.
8.
PellegrinoS., 1990. Analysis of prestressed mechanisms. International Journal of Solids and Structures, 26(12), 1329–1350.
9.
VassartN.MotroR., 1999. Multiparametered formfinding method: Application to tensegrity systems. International Journal of Spaee Structures, 14(2), 147–154.
10.
MotroR., 1994. Form-finding numerical methods for tensegrity systems. Spatial, Lattice and Tension Structures. Proceedings of the IASS-ASCE Intl. Symposium, 704713.
11.
HanaorA., 1988. Prestressed pinjointed structures -flexibility analysis and prestress design. International Journal of Solids and Structures, 28(6), 757–769.
12.
HanaorA., 1992. Aspects of design of double layer tensegrity domes. International Journal of Spaee Structures, 7(2), 101–113.
13.
TarnaiT., 1980. Simultaneous static and kinematic indeterminacy of space trusses with cyclic symmetry. International Journal of Solids and Structures, 16(12), 347–359.
14.
KennerH., 1976. Geodesic math and how to use it. University of California Press, Berkeley.
