Control of Tensegrity Plate due to Member Loss

Abstract The present paper focuses on the study of actively controlled tensegrity plates and their self-repair, considering possible damage scenarios. A simple tensegrity module is applied to build a tensegrity plate. The structures are controlled by modifying the self-stress state. Nine damage scenarios are analyzed; in each one cable is taken out of the plate. The primary objective of the control is to maintain a constant slope of the upper surface of the structure. The results indicate that the adjustment of prestressing forces may compensate the broken element, satisfying serviceability criteria.