Effects of Self-Stress Distributions on Stability of Tensegrity Structures

Tensegrity systems are composed of any given set of cables connected to a set of struts in which the cables connectivity must be able to stabilize the configuration. Self-stresses contribute to the rigidity and stability of the system. Therefore, self-stress distribution has a dominant effect on the stability behavior of these systems. In this study, the stability behavior of plane double-layer tensegrity systems considering different distributions of self-stresses is evaluated. Based on the results obtained, collapse mechanisms, load carrying capacities, stiffness of the systems and slackening of the cables are affected by self-stress distribution. Therefore, self-stress design is a key factor that plays a dominant role on the stability behavior of tensegrity systems. These results can lead to the suggestion of some guidelines on the selection of self-stress distribution for the design of tensegrity systems against instability.