Origami in Deployable Structures for Small Satellites

The key challenge of deployable space structures is developing a method to compactly fold the structure during launch, before unfurling it to its full dimensions once in space. In small satellites storage volume is at an even greater premium, requiring a very high packaging efficiency for the deployable structures. Engineering origami provides a potential solution to these demanding requirements.

This talk focuses on a CubeSat technology demonstration mission under development at the Surrey Space Centre. The primary satellite payload is an inflatable cylindrical mast, which is folded using an origami pattern. The trade-off leading to the use of origami folding, the selection of a suitable pattern, and the manufacturing challenges leading up to the testing of the inflatable boom will be discussed. Further applications of origami in deployable space structures for small satellites are briefly highlighted.

About Mark Schenk

Mark Schenk is a research fellow in deployable structures at the Surrey Space Centre (UK).

See website: http:/www.markschenk.com/research/