Equivalent Mechanical Modeling and Dynamic Analysis of a Large Annular Tensegrity Structure

Recent research on space technology applications has revealed a growing demand for deployable structures with large apertures. Numerous deployable structures that can form a single closed loop have been developed with a total weight limitation. The main purpose of this paper is to present an equivalent parameterized mechanical modeling method that is appropriate for an annular tensegrity structure, which is a tensioned structure that is intended for antenna applications with an aperture range of 30–100 m. In this model, the solutions of geometrically nonlinear problems for the cables and beams of the hoop are presented. Both the kinetic energy and potential energy are identified, which are represented by the velocity of the node component and strain component, respectively, of the beam members in the hoop unit of the parameterized hoop structure. Then, the behaviors of the eigenvalues and vibration modes for this tensegrity structure based on dynamic analysis are also investigated. Additionally, the effect on dynamic performance is demonstrated when the structural parameters are changed. The sensitivity of the structural parameters to dynamic characteristics is separately analyzed. The priority approaches to improving the overall stiffness of the structure when employing different hoop configurations are proposed.