Structural and Materials Investigation of a 1/8-Scale-Model Space Structure of Toroidal Configuration and Filamentary Construction.
Abstract
A structural and materials investigation has been conducted on a 1/8-scale model of a proposed 30-foot-diameter torus space structure. Structural design of the model is based on the isotensoid concept in which filamentary material is wound in the torus meridional plane and oriented to carry primary radial structural loads as constant tension in the filaments. Inner and outer equatorial bands provide strength in the circumferential direction. Tests were per- formed on the model to determine dimensional stability, filament load distribution, hypervelocity impact, and structural failure. Test results indicated that the overall height of the meridian-plane cross section and the inner and outer diameters increased approximately linearly as the pressure was increased up to 56.0 psi. Strain-gage values of filament loading were approximately 18 percent less than theoretical values for the design operating pressure of 56.0 psi. Failure of the torus occurred at an internal pressure of approximately 94.O psi, which is approximately 34 percent of the design load based on ultimate strength of the filaments. Structural failure was a result of separation of adjacent torus filaments and not of failure of the filaments themselves.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- ADA307827
Entities
People
- George P. Goodman
- Jerry G. Williams
Organizations
- Langley Research Center