Dynamic Finite-Element Analysis of Multibody Systems Moving along Nonlinear Trajectories at Variable Velocities

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to develop a procedure for performing a dynamic analysis in the case that a multibody system in three dimensions moves along a nonlinear trajectory at variable velocity. The finite-element equations of motion were derived in the case that the multibody system undergoes large translational and rotational displacements in three dimensions. A computational code for time history response analysis of multibody systems was then developed. Time history responses on the model system comprised of two flexible links and a rigid body moving along a nonlinear trajectory were calculated using the derived computational codes.