Tensegrity Structures

To facilitate a deeper understanding of tensegrity structures, this book focuses on their two key design problems: self-equilibrium analysis and stability investigation. In particular, high symmetry properties of the structures are extensively utilized. Conditions for self-equilibrium as well as super-stability of tensegrity structures are presented in detail. An analytical method and an efficient numerical method are given for self-equilibrium analysis of tensegrity structures: the analytical method deals with symmetric structures and the numerical method guarantees super-stability. Utilizing group representation theory, the text further provides analytical super-stability conditions for the structures that are of dihedral as well as tetrahedral symmetry. This book not only serves as a reference for engineers and scientists but is also a useful source for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students. Keeping this objective in mind, the presentation of the book is self-contained anddetailed, with an abundance of figures and examples.

Introduction.- Equilibrium.- Self-Equilibrium Analysis by Symmetry.- Stability.- Force Density Method.- Prismatic Structures of Dihedral Symmetry.- Star-Shaped Structures of Dihedral Symmetry.- Regular Truncated Tetrahedral Structures.- Linear Algebra.- Affine Motions and Rigidity Condition.- Tensegrity Tower.- Group Representation Theory and Symmetry-Adapted Matrix