Camera-based digital real-time static and dynamic testing of deployable/inflatable structures

摘要

NASA's recent space programs require the use of many ultra-lightweight deployable/inflatable structures, but there are many modeling, analysis and testing problems. A totaL-Lagrangian finite element code GESA (Geometrically Exact Structural Analysis) is being developed by the authors by implementing geometrically exact structural theories for the modeling, analysis, and fast prototyping of Highly Flexible Structures (HFSs). However, it is very challenging to experimentally verify the large static and dynamic deformations of such lightweight HFSs by using conventional sensors. This paper presents the use of an EAGLE-500 real-time motion analysis system to measure large static and dynamic deformations of HFSs in order to verify the accuracy of numerical solutions obtained from GESA. Experimental results obtained from several highly flexible structures are used to show the capabilities of this system in characterizing nonlinear statics and dynamics of HFSs.