Dynamic Propagation of Snap-through Buckling in Tensegrity Structures

Tensegrity structures under certain conditions may be prone to snap-through buckling. The temporary loss of equilibrium due to snap-through normally results in a dynamic force being applied to each node associated with the snap-through. This paper presents a numerical study on the progressive collapse behavior of tensegrity structures due to the buckling of struts. Emphasis is given to the dynamic nature of the coupled member and nodal snap-through effects on the overall structural behavior. Member buckling is taken into consideration by carefully following the buckling load–displacement response of the member. It is assumed that the structure is subjected only to static gravitational load. Results of the present study allow one to assess the effects of various design parameters such as self-stress levels, effective-length factor of struts and damping characteristics on the propagation of snap-through buckling in these structures. The conclusions, drawn from this study, lead to the suggestion of some guidelines and recommendations for the design of such structures.