Inflatable technology: using flexible materials to make large structures

Abstract

Space structures are one of the most critical components for any spacecraft, as they must provide the maximum amount of livable volume with the minimum amount of mass. Deployable structures can be used to gain additional space that would not normally fit under a launch vehicle shroud. This expansion capability allows it to be packed in a small launch volume for launch, and deploy into its fully open volume once in space. Inflatable, deployable structures in particular, have been investigated by NASA since the early 1950's and used in a number of spaceflight applications. Inflatable satellites, booms, and antennas can be used in low-Earth orbit applications. Inflatable heatshields, decelerators, and airbags can be used for entry, descent and landing applications. Inflatable habitats, airlocks, and space stations can be used for in-space living spaces and surface exploration missions. Inflatable blimps and rovers can be used for advanced missions to other worlds. These applications are just a few of the possible uses for inflatable structures that will continued to be studied as we look to expand our presence throughout the solar system.

Determining the degree of effect of heat flows on the deformation of the shell of a space inflatable platform with a payload

“…The level of scientific and practical consideration of the tasks to design and construct SIP is quite deep [15]. The most known applications of SIP are:…”

“…-inflatable space reflectors (Echo satellites) [15]; -inflatable antennas (SPARTAN experiment) [15]; -systems for storing and returning payload to Earth [15]; -inflatable modules for placing astronauts (BEAM) [16]; -inflatable rods for space systems distributed in space [17]; -systems for the removal of spent spacecraft from near-Earth orbits [18].…”

“…In turn, according to [15], the thickness of the shells of inflatable systems that do not involve astronauts on board is quite small (from one to several millimeters). Given this, mounting PL containers on an inflatable dispenser with this thickness is problematic.…”

“…The orientation and stabilization system includes solar and stellar sensors, flywheel motors, and electromagnets. The SIP shell consists of a polyamide Kapton film with aluminum spraying and thermal screens with a thickness l = 2 mm and an average density of 1400 kg/m 2 , the Young's modulus for it is E = 86.2 GPa [15].…”

DIC system with Euler transformation for structural measurements in wind tunnel

“…Lightweight structures are highly recommended in aerospace applications such as flapping wings in MAV (Micro air vehicle), deployable parachutes, gossamer structures, and inflatable space structures due to their flexibility, adaptability, fatigue resistance, and stability in extreme environments. [1][2][3][4] Large test sections of wind tunnels are used to test the aerodynamics of these structures. For measuring force and moment, conventional techniques like sting balances and robotic arms are well-established.…”