Finite element analysis of deployable space structures

Abstract

This paper presents the stress analysis for predicating the behavior of flat thin inflatable membrane structure in MATLAB. This is having square shaped with a thickness in millimeter fabricated using the various smart materials. Within structural member, it is subjected to pre-stress rather than bending or moments. The deployable structure has the low weight (minimal mass to achieve high acceleration); large area & durable (easily withstand the temperature changes, micrometeoroid hazards in outer space). The objective of this paper is to optimize the smart material for the space satellite technology so that the light weight inflatable structure attracts in satellite application. The observations show the good agreement of finite element results.