An algorithm for nonlinear stability analysis of an expandable self-erecting structure

Abstract An algorithm for sequential fabrication of an expandable structure, and for the investigation of its stability behavior with external stiffeners has been developed. The algorithm is capable of handling instantaneous unstable equilibrium configurations developed during the process of erection and subsequent loading of the expandable structure. A nonlinear finite element model with corotational frame of reference is included by considering large rotations, which are not vector quantities in nature. The proposed algorithm is compared with different algorithms used for similar type of analysis, and then used to determine stability behavior of stiffened prestressed elastica domes. The algorithm used is numerically well conditioned during the entire process of tracing the equilibrium path of the expandable self-erecting structure.