Effect of cross-link stiffness on the in-plane free vibration behaviour of a two-cable network

As a key element in a cable network, the properties of cross-link would directly affect the dynamic response of the network and therefore the effectiveness of this field solution in suppressing cable vibrations. To have a deeper insight into the mechanics associated with the dynamic behaviour of a cable network and improve the existing cross-link design, an analytical model of a cable network which consists of two horizontally laid main cables and a transverse flexible cross-link is proposed in the current study to evaluate its in-plane free vibration behaviour. The modal solutions to the network are derived analytically. The proposed analytical model and solutions are validated by numerical simulations and applied to several cable networks with different configurations, of which the modal behaviour under varying cross-link stiffness are compared. A parametric study is conducted to evaluate the role of cross-link stiffness in influencing the effect of various system parameters on the in-plane modal response of a cable network.