Foam Inflated Rigidized Structures for Space Applications
Abstract
Large lightweight stowable structures that can be deployed in space without astronauts having to perform extra-vehicular activities are vital to expanding space exploration and use. To meet this challenge, Foam Inflated Rigidized (FIR) structures have been developed by Thiokol Corporation as part of the Air Force's Gossamer Baggie Torus program. These beam-like structures are intended to stabilize the solar collector of a solar thermal rocket. This paper discusses the design, development, and proof of concept demonstration of an 8-foot diameter octagonal torus FIR structure. A FIR structure uses foam to inflate and pre-stress a resin-impregnated fabric skin. The predeployed foam used was a solvent-swelled polymer, polystyrene, that foams immediately when exposed to a vacuum due to rapid solvent loss. This property allows a very simple deployment mechanism to be used in erecting these structures. Once inflated, the skin resin is cured using available ultraviolet radiation. By using high strength and stiffness fiber materials a stiff, strong, lightweight structure is produced. (9 figures)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA419736
Entities
People
- D. M. Lester
- M. Blair
- M. J. Warner