Modular simulation in multibody system dynamics (Q1577445)

The authors present a block representation of the dynamics of multibody systems. The procedure is motivated by similar procedures employed in system dynamics and control theory. It is found, however, that with the presence of algebraic loops, there may be instabilities in integration. A method for overcoming this problem is also presented. The paper may be of particular interest to numerical analysts working with large multibody systems.