Development of origami-/ kirigami- based strategies for lightweight, stiff and strong structures

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to develop a deployment system that unfold from a stowed configuration to a large, deployed array configuration. This study is prompted by the need for lightweight and compact folded solar arrays for use in space. In order for solar arrays to be launched in their stowed configuration and then deployed in space with a much larger surface area, the systems require a large ratio of stowed-to-deployed diameter. The objective of the study is to study into different origami folds to further develop folds to increase the packed-to-deployed ratio.