Numerical Simulations of a Deployable Structure

This paper presents the numerical modeling of the folding of a deployable structure with elastic hinges. Elastic hinges are tape springs, doubly slit cylindrical shells, and coilable longeron truss. We examine the folding process of a deployable structure with nine elastic hinges. The elastic hinge of the deployable structure is a doubly slit cylindrical segment made of composite materials. It allows bending about a lateral axis for stowage. The elastic hinge behaves like a standard beam-like truss member when deployed. The numerical model will be validated using the experimental data to be generated at the Air Force Research Laboratory where the deployment of the same physical deployable structure will be studied using photometry technique. Successful validation will allow designer to use the numerical model for future space structures with the elastic hinges.