Flexible Multibody Dynamics: A Finite Element Approach

Flexible Multibody Dynamics comprehensively describes the numerical modelling of flexible multibody dynamics systems in space and aircraft structures, vehicles, and mechanical systems. A rigorous approach is followed to handle finite rotations in 3D, with a thorough discussion of the different alternatives for parametrization. Modelling of flexible bodies is treated following the Finite Element technique, a novel aspect in multibody systems simulation. Moreover, this book provides extensive coverage of the formulation of a general purpose software for flexible multibody dynamics analysis, based on an exhaustive treatment of large rotations and finite element modelling, and incorporating useful reference material. Features include different solution techniques such as: aeo time integration of differential--algebraic equations aeo non--linear substructuring aeo continuation methods aeo nonlinear bifurcation analysis. In essence, this is an ideal text for senior undergraduates, postgraduates and professionals in mechanical and aeronautical engineering, as well as mechanical design engineers and researchers, and engineers working in areas such as kinematics and dynamics of deployable structures, vehicle dynamics and mechanical design.