Dynamic Bifurcation of Multibody Systems

In this paper, the process of loss of stability of multibody systems and structures is analyzed. A novel approach is presented and applied to the statically loaded spatial systems for the analysis of a dynamic response of systems imposed on impact, high velocity compulsive motion, or percussive forces. The analysis is based on the solution of the dynamic equations and eigenvalue problem of systems, and of the resultant motion simulation. The flexible systems are discretized using the finite element method. The dynamic equations are derived with respect to the relative coordinates of the finite elements. Large flexible deflections due to a loss of stability are simulated. The initial forms of the possible deformations are defined by the computed eigenvectors solving the eigenvalue problem for the system stiffness matrix. The critical forces and system deflections are then analyzed. Examples of bifurcation of beam and beam structure imposed on compulsive motion, percussive forces, and impact are presented.