Dynamics of multi-link systems consisting of filament-wound composite
beams and rigid bodies undergoing large rotations and translations is
formulated. A two-node hybrid-stress shear-flexible finite element is
used in modeling the links. The mass properties of the finite element
which are required for multibody dynamic analysis are developed. A rec
ursive formulation based on Kane's equations is used in the analysis o
f the multi-link system. Closed loops and prescribed motions are allow
ed in the system and the corresponding constraint equations are impose
d. The constraint violations due to numerical errors are stabilized by
using Baumgarte's method. A slider-crank mechanism is simulated to il
lustrate the differences between the responses of isotropic and compos
ite mechanisms of the same weight.