Abstract
Space exploration arises the demand for launching large size structures to satisfy the need of high bandwidth telecommunication, earth observation and deep space interplanetary missions. Launching of these monolithic structures of sizes 3 m or more are not feasible due to limited launch fairing space of state-of-the-art launch vehicles. Therefore, the development of innovative deployment mechanisms is need of the hour. Deployment process of space borne deployable systems is the process of transition from mechanism to structure which is one of the unreliable stage due to existence of many conventional rotary joints which causes loss of energy due to backlash, friction and misalignment. An investigation study is presented in this paper for churning out a solution of flexible hinges using tape springs in state-of-the-art space deployable configurations which eliminates the factors causing loss of energy. Analytical and experimental methods are evaluated for investigating the bending behaviour of tape flexures. Tape flexures demonstrate to be a suitable candidate for compliant deployable configuration. The proposed configuration with combination of two tape flexures mounted in such a way that concave curve of each tape faces each other are structurally analysed for desired rotation angle. A comparison study is carried out for various material options of single and double layered tape flexures proposed for a flexure hinge. Practical feasibility of the proposed configuration is also demonstrated successfully on space borne deployable structures.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
