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Development and testing of a deployable double layer tensegrity grid

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conference contribution
posted on 2020-09-14, 14:31 authored by MICHAEL QUILLIGANMICHAEL QUILLIGAN, Valentin Gomez-Jauregui, Cristina Manchado, Cesar Otero
Tensegrity is a structural principle based on the use of isolated or contiguous pin jointed components in compression inside a net of continuous tension. Although the concept has been studied for many decades, relatively few examples of tensegrity structures have been used for civil engineering purposes. This paper describes the development and testing of a ‘Deployable Double Layer Tensegrity Grid’ (DDLTG). This type of structure can be easily stored, transported, and erected within a short time frame, allowing for many uses such as temporary shelters, exhibition roof structures, etc. A large scale 4×4 m grid structure was designed and constructed using the ‘Quastruts-S’ tensegrity module. A series of novel functional nodes were developed to cater for the connection of multi-directional cables and struts, while allowing for member rotations to permit folding the structure. The overall behaviour of the DDLTG proved satisfactory, and the structure folded into a compact cluster 0.56 m in diameter. A comparison of preliminary experimental results with theoretical predictions is provided and discussed.

History

Publication

Civil Engineering Research in Ireland 2020, Ruane, Kieran & Jaksic Vesna (eds);

Publisher

Civil Engineering Research Association of Ireland

Note

peer-reviewed

Language

English

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