Control of space structure thermal deformation: an overview

Hugh L. McManus

doi:10.1117/12.152791

8 September 1993 Control of space structure thermal deformation: an overview

Hugh L. McManus

Proceedings Volume 1917, Smart Structures and Materials 1993: Smart Structures and Intelligent Systems; (1993) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.152791
Event: 1993 North American Conference on Smart Structures and Materials, 1993, Albuquerque, NM, United States

Abstract

This paper presents a preliminary overview of the issues relevant to the use of active structures technology for the control of thermal deformations in space structures. Space structures often have extreme dimensional stability requirements, and are exposed to a severe thermal environment in orbit. This environment causes temperature fluctuations and distributions that can lead to unacceptable structural deformations. The orbital environment, its thermal effects on structures, and the resulting deformations are reviewed with examples. It is shown that use of ultra-low coefficient of thermal expansion composites can reduce deformations to low levels, but the deformations that do occur are very difficult to predict. This motivates the addition of active structures technology to actively sense and counteract these deformations. It is found that this is practical with current technology under some circumstances. Problems that must be overcome in sensing and mechanical coupling are also reviewed, as are linkages between thermal and structural dynamic problems.

Citation Download Citation

Hugh L. McManus "Control of space structure thermal deformation: an overview", Proc. SPIE 1917, Smart Structures and Materials 1993: Smart Structures and Intelligent Systems, (8 September 1993); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.152791

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