Space Applications of Tensegric Structures

Abstract

Tensile integrity (tensegrity, tensegric) structures are suggested for possible use in outer space and on space bodies because of their minimal need for structural materials, ease of transfer and mounting. Structurally their behavior is non-linear. It has been shown here that their structural analysis can successfully be performed by total potential optimization using meta-heuristic algorithms (TPO/MA). The named method is an emerging technique that combines minimum energy principle of mechanics with metaheuristic algorithms. The technique thus defined has been shown to be very efficient, accurate and robust in analyzing structures. The success of the technique is especially profound for non-linear structures. In this study the named technique is applied to tensile integrity (tensegrity, tensegric) structures which are known to be highly nonlinear, thus difficult to analyze.