Nonlinear dynamics of truss structures applied to actuated mechanisms and origami structures - a FEM formulation and computational implementation

• Grant number: 23/06839-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Effective date (Start): July 01, 2023
• Effective date (End): December 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Civil Engineering - Structural Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Humberto Breves Coda
• Grantee: Rafael Rosas Garcia Almeida
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The objective of this research project is developing a computational code, based on the positional finite element method, capable of modeling three-dimensional trusses subject to static and dynamic loads, developing large displacements. In this context, as trusses can be converted into a mechanism by replacing one or more bars by actuators, it is intended to model mechanisms through the developed computational code. Finally, the energy conjugation concept regarding the angle formed between planes (formed by truss elements) and the relative displacements of nodes will be used to enable modeling passive and active origamic structures. The use of the positional FEM together with the conjugation concept gives originality to the proposal. The developed code should be validated using structural examples and simple mechanisms. Its possibilities should be explored in origamic structures of the waterbomb type.