Adapting Origami-based Deployable Arrays to Thickness

Abstract

The goal of this effort is to develop deployment mechanisms with a high stowed-to-deployed diameter ratio. 
Folding panels in a manner reminiscent of origami may accomplish deployment from a compact shape to a 
final flat state. When the application calls for the folding of thick, rigid panels, consideration must be given 
to the impact of material thickness not only on the final folded state but also during the folding motion (i.e., 
the panels must not be required to flex to attain the final folded form). Many models are capable of this motion 
when folded in a material with negligible thickness. Developing innovative deployment techniques from a 
small folded form to a huge circular array (or other ultimate shape) is the goal. In the framework of designing, 
developing, and testing a deployable system based on an origami six-sided flasher model, this study presents 
a mathematical model for adjusting the pattern to account for material thickness. A 1/20th scale prototype of 
a deployable solar array for space purposes serves as a physical demonstration of the idea. The final 
prototype's stowed-to-deployed diameter ratio is 9.2, or 1.25 m for the deployed outer diameter and 0.136 m 
for the stowed outer diameter.