Sensitivity of Plane Tensegrity Systems to Tension-Only Member Loss

Tensegrity systems are self-stressed equilibrate spatial structures composed of compressed struts connected to cables in tension. The initial stresses contribute to the system’s rigidity and stability. These systems typically contain a large number of members, and possess a high degree of statically indeterminacy. However, a number of members are critical to system integrity, with the loss of any of them likely to produce serious strength reductions. Furthermore, when these members are lost suddenly, their forces are shed into the structure in a dynamic manner, leading to yet more severe damage. This paper presents a numerical study on the sensitivity of plane tensegrity systems to both gradual and sudden member losses, taking into account both geometric and material nonlinearities. Other parameter that was also considered in this work includes the self-stress level. The conclusions drawn from such a study can in turn, lead to the suggestion of some simple guidelines for the design of such systems.