Multibody System Dynamics: Roots and Perspectives

The paper reviews the roots, the state-of-the-art and perspectives of multibody system dynamics. Some historical remarks show that multibody system dynamics is based on classical mechanics and its engineering applications ranging from mechanisms, gyroscopes, satellites and robots to biomechanics. The state-of-the-art in rigid multibody systems is presented with reference to textbooks and proceedings. Multibody system dynamics is characterized by algorithms or formalisms, respectively, ready for computer implementation. As a result simulation and animation are most important. The state-of-the-art in flexible multibody systems is considered in a companion review by Shabana. Future research fields in multibody dynamics are identified as standardization of data, coupling with CAD systems, parameter identification, real-time animation, contact and impact problems, extension to control and mechatronic systems, optimal system design, strength analysis and interaction with fluids. Further, there is a strong interest on multibody systems in analytical and numerical mathematics resulting in reduction methods for rigorous treatment of simple models and special integration codes for ODE and DAE representations supporting the numerical efficiency. New software engineering tools with modular approaches promise improved efficiency still required for the more demanding needs in biomechanics, robotics and vehicle dynamics.