Theoretical Analysis of Self-Deployable Tensegrity Structures

摘要

A new technology has been discovered. Elastic ties have been introduced into a class of tensegrity structures. Each structure can be stowed or packaged into a cylindrical form with the struts lying side by side. When the structure is release from its stowed position it self-deploys and reaches a position of minimum potential energy. It is considered that one major application of this new technology is the development of novel self-deploying structures for the deployment of antennas in space. This proposal addresses the key theoretical issues which provide a proper basis for the understanding of: (i) the geometrical stability of the structures; (ii) the kinematics and statics of self-deployment from the stowed position to the fully deployed position; (iii) the elastic stability of the structures via application of Catastrophe Theory; (iv) the kinematics and statics of the structures for position control and actuation of the antenna surface using screw theory. The investigators firmly believe that an analysis based properly on the geometry, statics, and kinematics of the structures will lead to optimal designs and performance. This will further lead to reduced costs and a high degree of reliability.