Micropolar Continuous Modeling and Frequency Response Validation of a Lattice Structure

A simple approach is employed here to determine an equivalent continuum representation of a lattice type structure with flexible joints. Kinetic and strain energy expressions are written in terms of the nodal velocities and strain components of the beam members, as well as the joints stiffness values. Necessary assumptions are made to reduce the order of the strain variables while retaining the effects of the microrotations that are coupled to the primary strain terms. As a result, an equivalent one-dimensional model has been found, which takes the assumptions of a micropolar continuum into account rather than an ordinary continuum. The frequency response function of the presented model has been validated experimentally and is shown to be in good agreement with the experimental results for a planar truss with Pratt girder configuration.