EXPANDABLE STRUCTURES FOR CONSTRUCTION OF ASTRONAUT TRANSFER TUNNEL,

Abstract

This study investigates the feasibility of using the expandable concept for construction of a transfer tunnel from Gemini B to the Manned Orbiting Laboratory. Current and advanced technology of expandable and/or inflatable structures and data to support its application are presented. The effect of space environment on materials of construction, in addition to various design configurations, properties of reinforcement, elastomers, and fabrication methods are also presented. The study indicates that current technology of expandables is sufficiently advanced such that the construction of an expandable tunnel can be realized if materials, fabrication methods, and design are properly chosen. A self-erectable double-wall composite consisting of a preformed foam interlayer capable of expanding (elastic recovery concept) is considered the best design approach. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 05, 1965
Accession Number
AD0484347

Entities

People

  • V. F. Hribar

Organizations

  • The Aerospace Corporation

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Buildings And Structures
  • Composite Materials
  • Construction
  • Elastomers
  • Environment
  • Expandable Structures
  • Fabrication
  • Inflatable Structures
  • Materials
  • Materials Laboratories
  • Materials Processing
  • Space Environments

Fields of Study

  • Materials science

Readers

  • Nuclear Civil Defense.
  • Polymer Science and Engineering.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space