| TENSEGRITY STRUCTURES What are "Tensegrity Structures": Special Features: |
 |
Tensegrity systems are spatial structures, consisting of
cables and compression bars only. These structures are extremely flexible and
light, and can therefore be used in great variety. The area of application of
tensegrity systems spreads from static to deployable structures, whereby selected
members can change its length and consequently the total structure changes its
form. Even "intelligent" adaptive systems are possible, which e.g. actively
react to environmental influence. |
 |
From a structural-mechanical point of view the cables are an additional feature
to these systems. They have to be prestressed in a defined way, in order to
achieve a stable structure with regard to external loads. The distribution of
forces, the deflections and the vibration behaviour of these systems are substantially
influenced by the selected pre-tensioning condition of the cables..
|
 |
|
Update January 19, 2005