Tensegrity Footbridge with Prestressed Deck

This paper presents an introduction to a tensegrity footbridge with a prestressed deck, focusing on its structural analysis and design. The inclusion of cable pretension leads to deck prestressing. Through finite element analysis, various aspects are investigated, including nonlinear geometric effects, key load cases, the influence of the main cable’s rise, and modal analysis of this unique structure. The study reveals that the tensegrity bridge exhibits favourable structural behaviour, making it a suitable choice for footbridges, although it differs from traditional bridge designs. The paper concludes by summarizing essential recommendations concerning structural design, material properties, and the overall behaviour of the tensegrity bridge.