Modular Multi-Functional Structural Panels
A newly closed GSTP activity wanted to find out how much mass could be saved by building multi-functional structures that integrate the typically separated functions of several spacecraft sub systems into structural elements.
Baseline spacecraft mass is a critical design driver for many missions.
A newly closed GSTP activity with Invent and Space Structures GmbH, both in Germany, wanted to find out how much mass could be saved by building multi-functional structures that integrate the typically separated functions of several spacecraft sub systems into structural elements.
To do this, they built an engineering model of a carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminated structure with tailored layers that met the environmental requirements, where the function of each layer can also be tailored to meet overall functional requirements of the part.
The activity demonstrates the feasibility of manufacturing a carbon fiber reinforced polymer panel with integrated functions, which performs comparably to a standard structural panel with electronic functions.
The activity built a small GEO panel with integrated electronic junction, heaters, fibre optic and thermistors as the demonstrator. It also refined the updated panel design to include integrated electronics functions within the polymer instead of bolted on.
By integrating the technology features, such as embedded fibre optics, the technology can be used for health monitoring during tests, or as a lightweight radiation-resistant material.
The prototype completed the first qualification testing for thermal vacuum cycling, resonant frequency, sine, quasi static loads and shock loads. Test results for panel accelerations matched within 10% of numerical predictions.
As a feasibility demonstration, the activity showed evidence of function after qualification type testing, which is important for any project looking to reduce baseline structural mass whilst retaining technology capability for the mission.
Next, the activity will assess the possibility of technology transfer of the panels as lightweight integrated radiation shielding, from space application to medical or other industries.
G617-104MS closed in December 2019