Modeling and Algorithm on a Class of Mechanical Systems with Unilateral Constraints

In the present paper, the cable-structures are considered as a class of mechanical complementary-slackness systems. Based on the optimization algorithms used for multi-body dynamics with unilateral contacts, an algorithm by means of artificial neural network (NNW) is developed. The following two classes of cable-structures have been considered force-elongation of cable member follows elastic behavior and work-hardening assumption. Due to simplicity the former is used to prove the method reliability, and the latter, as general cable-structure problem is handled. First, the complementarity problems for those structures have been formulated; then using generalized Gaussian‘ least action principle they are summarized as an optimization problem. Based on Hopfield’s work, an artificial NNW has been designed and used to decide combination of possible constraints at each step in simulation. As examples, two cable-structures have been investigated. The calculated results for a simple suspension structure evidence the reliability and time-economization of the proposed method. An example of guyed mast shows the suitability of the proposed method for practical cable-structures.This paper supported by NSFC, No.10072040