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Analyzing the
tethered satellite towing dynamics problem using a material
point-finite element hybrid method
Weipeng Hu, Xinying Yan, Zhuangzhuang Li, Fan Zhang and Chuan Xiao |
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Vol. 20 (2025), No. 5, 587–604
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DOI: 10.2140/jomms.2025.20.587
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Abstract |
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The coupled dynamics of extremely large deformations and small deformations in tethered satellite towing systems pose significant challenges in dynamic analysis. To address this, the present study develops an MPM-FEM framework by integrating the advantages of the finite element method (FEM) in solving small-deformation problems and the material point method (MPM) in simulating extremely large deformations. This hybrid approach is specifically designed to model the dynamic behavior of tethered satellite towing systems. First, the theoretical framework of the MPM-FEM containing the beam element as well as the rod element is established. In the framework, procedures for incorporating beam and rod elements into the MPM formulation are presented in detail. Subsequently, the validity of the proposed method is rigorously verified through two benchmark cases: a tether oscillation model and a cantilever beam impact dynamics model. Finally, MPM-FEM is applied to simulate the dynamic process of a tethered satellite towing a flexible beam. Key results include time-resolved displacement-deformation profiles of the towing system and the temporal evolution of total energy, kinetic energy, and strain energy. These findings provide critical insights for the design of dynamic systems and control strategies in tethered satellite towing applications. |
Keywords
material point method, finite element method, tethered
satellite towing system, large deformation
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Milestones
Received: 8 July 2025
Revised: 24 September 2025
Accepted: 12 November 2025
Published: 29 November 2025
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Authors |
| Weipeng Hu | |
| School of Civil Engineering and
Architecture Xi’an University of Technology Xi’an, 710048 China |
State Key Laboratory of Water
Engineering Ecology and Environment in Arid Area Xi’an University of Technology Xi’an, 710048 China |
| Xinying Yan | |
| School of Civil Engineering and
Architecture Xi’an University of Technology Xi’an, 710048 China |
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| Zhuangzhuang Li | |
| School of Civil Engineering and
Architecture Xi’an University of Technology Xi’an, 710048 China |
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| Fan Zhang | |
| School of Civil Engineering and
Architecture Xi’an University of Technology Xi’an, 710048 China |
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| Chuan Xiao | |
| China Academy of Ordnance
Science Beijing, 100089 China |
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| © 2025 MSP (Mathematical Sciences Publishers). |
