Session: 01-12-01: Spacecraft Structures 1

Paper Number: 152319

152319 - Non Linear Thermo-Mechanical Numerical Model for Space Deployable Structures Actuated With Smart Materials 

In this paper, a nonlinear thermo-mechanical model is developed within the framework of the Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF) to analyse the behaviour of deployable multilayered structures actuated by smart materials like shape memory alloys (SMA) and piezoelectrics. The study focuses on the application in the aerospace industry, specifically in the development of lightweight and flexible structures for space deployable systems. The use of smart materials such as SMAs enables the structure to undergo large deformations while maintaining a high level of structural integrity.

The Carrera Unified Formulation provides a powerful numerical framework for modeling the nonlinear behaviour of multilayered structures. CUF allows for the definition of various structural theories by changing the order of expansion in the thickness direction, thereby unifying different modeling approaches under a single framework. This versatility is crucial when dealing with complex material behaviour such as the phase transformations in SMA and the nonlinear electromechanical coupling in piezoelectric materials.

The model proposes detailed description of both thermal and mechanical effects, accounting for material nonlinearities and large deformations. A particular focus is placed on the interaction between thermal loading and the actuation mechanism provided by the smart materials. Numerical simulations are carried out to assess the influence of parameters such as layer thickness, boundary conditions, and smart material characteristics on the performance of the deployable structures. The results show that the use of smart materials can significantly enhance the control of the system by reducing mass and volume of the whole system with respect to commercial deployable structures with passive or motor-driven deployment systems. These characteristics make it highly suitable for space applications where compact stowage and reliable deployment are critical.

Presenting Author: Tommaso Sironi Politecnico di Bari

Presenting Author Biography: Tommaso obtained his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering at Politecnico di Milano, and then specialized in a Master's degree in Space Engineering with a thesis on mission analysis and modeling of a drag sail for satellite deorbiting. During his academic career, he developed cross-disciplinary skills in thermo-mechanical analysis, orbital mechanics, telecommunications, attitude control, and systems engineering. Since November 2023, Tommaso has been a PhD candidate in Aerospace Engineering and Sciences at the Polytechnic University of Bari, focusing on the numerical modeling of flexible structures for space applications. He collaborates with Astradyne, he is responsible for the design and modeling of deployable structures and oversees the development of new products.