Finite Deformation Analysis of Cable Networks

Abstract

A finite deformation formulation for dynamic analysis of cable nets is presented. Lagrangian coordinates and Piola‐Kirchhoff stresses are used and elasto‐plastic material behavior is considered. Under assumption of straight cable elements and a displacement field varying linearly along the element, global equations of motion are established by referring the displacements to an initial configuration. These equations are linearized for iterative computation of the equilibrium configuration and for determining the eigenfrequencies and mode shapes of the linear vibration of the net about its equilibrium configuration. This analysis is performed by means of a computer program that can analyze nets anchored in fixed points. Slackness of cable elements is allowed. Three application examples are presented for linear elastic material behavior, showing a good agreement with experimental and computed published data.