A New Tensegrity Module

Abstract

Research on cylindrical and spherical tensegrity modules are extensively carried out. However research on other tensegrity modules is little reported. This paper presents an exploratory study on a new kind of tensegrity module – “torus”. The topology of the torus tensegrity is firstly introduced. Then the initial form-finding of the torus tensegrity is discussed. The static and dynamic analysis of the torus tensegrity shows that prestressing has a stiffening effect on infinitesimal mechanism modes if the geometry is properly arranged. A new cable dome with a torus tensegrity employed as its ring beam is finally proposed. The behavior of the new dome is also examined. The work here will provide a reference for further research and application of the torus tensegrity.

Keywords

tensegrity torus form-finding cable dome ring beam

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A New Tensegrity Module — “Torus”

Abstract

Keywords

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References