Abstract
This paper explores the concept of using electrostatic forces for actuation of gossamer space structures. The Electrostatically Inflated Membrane Structure (EIMS) uses two conducting membranes that are interconnected through ribs. An absolute electrostatic charge is given to the structure through active charge emission, causing repulsion between layers of lightweight membrane and leading to additional stiffness in the system. Of the dominant orbital perturbations considered for EIMS, the differential solar radiation pressure is found to have larger impact then the differential gravity forces due to the small, centimeter-level separation distance between the membranes. The minimum potentials required to compensate for differential solar radation pressure at geostationary altitudes are determined to be on the order of hundreds of volts. Also addressed are challenges of electrostatic inflation of membrane structures in an Earth orbit environment, and preliminary results of experiments illustrating inflation on simple prototype structures are presented.
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 call