Session: 02-01-01: Dynamic Loads, Response, Vibration and Alleviation of Aerospace Structures - I

Paper Number: 106876

106876 - Finite Element Modeling of an Origami-Inspired Deployable Solar Panel for Cubesat Applications 

In the new space economy, there is an increasing demand for smaller, lighter and more compact, satellites, without compromising performance and efficiency. To address this necessity, a new generation of deployable solar panels is emerging, along with the research associated with it. In this paper, we address the FEM modelling and analysis of a novel origami-inspired solar panel for CubeSat applications named SolarCube. It is based on the flasher origami pattern and manufactured with the technology FRET (Flexible Reinforced Electronics with Textile), a composite material which combines rigid-flex PCB with Nomex textile. Two Finite Element Analyses (FEM) are presented to model and analyze the SolarCube in its limit cases. The first one focuses on the stowed configuration of the solar panel in its cubic shape and is relevant for analyzing the static and dynamic solicitations during launch phases, which include vibrations, impact shocks and thermal cycles. The second one concerns the deployed state of the SolarCube’s structure and is interesting for the dynamic stresses that could act on the fully-open model, such as a change of directions or collision with debris. The results from these models allow to evaluate the effectiveness of the finite element technique applied to the FRET technology, optimized via modal testing and characterized by a heterogeneous composition: rigid, flexible and textile materials. 

Presenting Author: Andrea Troise Politecnico di Bari

Presenting Author Biography: Ph.D. candidate in engineering and aerospace sciences at Politecnico di Bari, Italy.
Master's degree in mechatronic engineering.
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.

Authors:

Andrea Troise Politecnico di Bari
Alessandro Buscicchio Politecnico di Bari
Vittorio Netti Politecnico di Bari
Maria Cinefra Politecnico di Bari