Dynamical Behavior of a Tensegrity Structure Coupled to a Spatial Steel Grid

Aim: In this study it is presented a methodology to determine the structural response of a tensegrity system working under the effects of wind, temperature variations and when coupled to a steel spatial grid applied as pedestrian bridge. This methodology is based in applying nonlinear static and dynamic analyzes and the base motion method.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Graduate Engineering Department, Universidad Autonoma de Queretaro, Queretaro, Mexico. September 2017 to July 2019.

Methodology: At first instance, it was analyzed the equilibrium configuration of a tensegrity system by only considering self-weight through non-linear static analyzes. In the second stage, it was studied the structural response and internal forces of the proposed tensegrity system under environmental loads as temperature variations and wind forces, which were represented as dynamic effects in a non-linear finite element model. Later, a spatial steel grid was analyzed for such environmental loads but using linear static analyzes. Finally, by applying the principle of superposition to the spatial steel grid, and the base motion method to the tensegrity system, it was represented the coupling of both systems as a single assembly.

Results: The structural response of a tensegrity system when working under different load conditions is obtained. Also, the effects produced by the coupling of both systems are determined.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the tensegrity system shows a stable response for the different load combinations established. There are also denoted the increases in internal forces and displacements for specific loads cases, which may affect locally some components and the overall behavior of the assembly.