Accurate numerical methods for studying the nonlinear wave-dynamics of tensegrity

This paper presents presents an effective numerical approach to the nonlinear dynamics of columns of tensegrity prisms subject to impulsive compressive loading. The equations of motions of the analyzed structures are formulated in vector form, by modeling the cables as deformable members and the bars as rigid bodies. The given numerical results investigate the wave dynamics of tensegrity columns, with focus on the propagation of compression solitary waves with variable size and amplitude throughout the system, as a function of the applied impact velocity and the state of prestress of the structure. The engineering potential of the examined structures as tunable acoustic actuators is discussed.