A configurable tensegrity-based metastructure with tunable bandgap achieved by structural phase transition

Metastructures with adjustable bandgaps provide an effective solution for modulating elastic waves and mitigating vibrations in scenarios with variable frequencies. However, achieving simplicity and effectiveness in the tunability of bandgap branches remains a challenge. Here we propose a configurable tensegrity-based metastructure achieved by structural phase transition (i.e., rigidity–flexibility transition of a structure caused by altering its configurational phase) and investigate this novel switching method of tunable bandgaps. The metastructure is composed of multiple well-designed X-tensegrity based structures that permit a reversible rigidity–flexibility transition with continuous unidirectional external loads. It is demonstrated that the present metastructure exhibits rich bandgap characteristics, i.e., tuning elastic wave bandgaps in terms of their ranges and branches. Furthermore, we explore the substantial influence of damping and friction on the dynamic performance of the metastructure. Finally, we experimentally validate the designed metastructure to showcase its vibration attenuation tunability through state switching induced by structural phase transition. The proposed tensegrity-based metastructure holds potential for applications as lightweight devices with the capability of wave attenuation and vibration monitoring.