Deployable Sandwich Shell with Hinged Webs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deployable flat or curved surface structures face limitations in lateral load capacity, weight ratio, weather-tightness, and insulation, particularly in applications requiring large loads or environmental protection.
Innovation Solution
A deployable sandwich-like shell structural system comprising two thin elastic sheets connected by hinged elongated web panels, allowing for compact stowage and stable deployment with external support, achieving high stiffness, strength, and weather-tightness through proper external support and trapped air insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single thin elastic sheet is used for deployable structures, then the structure can be compactly stowed and easily deployed, but the lateral load capacity is very limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies sandwich composite construction with two thin elastic sheets (skins) connected by a core structure (ribs or beams), creating a composite material system that provides both the flexibility needed for deployment and the lateral load capacity required for structural integrity. This composite approach allows the structure to achieve high strength-to-weight ratio while maintaining deployability.
2Strength
If hinged relatively rigid panels are used to improve load weight ratio, then the lateral load capacity improves, but the structure is not completely weather-tight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses continuous flexible elastic sheets (skins) that stretch across the entire structure without gaps or joints exposed to the environment. These thin film surfaces provide complete weather-tightness while the internal rib structure provides the necessary lateral load capacity. The flexible nature of the sheets allows them to conform to the changing geometry during deployment and stowage.
3Strength
If conventional sandwich design with hinged panels is used, then stiffness to weight ratio improves, but the structure has non weather-tightness limitation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs continuous flexible elastic sheets as the outer and inner surfaces of the sandwich structure, eliminating the need for hinged panel joints that would compromise weather-tightness. These thin films provide a seamless envelope that is completely weather-resistant while the internal core structure (ribs or beams) provides the necessary stiffness and structural support.
4Strength
If individual rigid panels are used for large lateral load capacity, then the load capacity is sufficient, but the panels are quite heavy and require complicated deployment devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses sandwich composite construction with two thin elastic sheets connected by a lightweight core structure (ribs or beams). This composite approach provides high lateral load capacity equivalent to solid rigid panels but with significantly reduced weight. The thin sheets distribute loads across the entire surface area, while the spaced core structure provides structural support, achieving high strength-to-weight ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the core structure into discrete ribs or beams spaced at intervals between the two elastic sheets. This segmentation allows the core to provide structural support where needed while leaving the majority of the structure as lightweight thin sheets. The segmented core also allows for compact folding and deployment while maintaining lateral load capacity in the deployed configuration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system offers a large allowable transverse load to weight ratio, excellent stiffness, weather-tightness, and efficient heat insulation, enabling applications with high environmental load resistance and adaptability in various configurations.
Implementation Method 1
Excellent transverse heat flow insulation due to trapped air in the deployed cells
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of a deployable structural system having sandwich-like shell stiffness and strength properties is constructed of an outer elastic sheet and an inner elastic sheet connected by a number of substantially rigid webs wherein hinges constitute the connections. The hinge connection spacing dimensions on the inner and outer elastic sheets differ such that the resulting assemblage may be elastically bent into a compact cylindrical configuration. Deployment is achieved through reversal of the bending process and application of sufficient external restraints such that the deployed configuration is structurally stable. Additional application embodiments are described.