Systematic design of tape spring hinges for solar array by optimization method considering deployment performances

Abstract

This paper reports the systematic development of tape spring hinges for a solar array by an optimization method considering various deployment performances. The nonlinear behavior between the moment and the rotation angle of a tape spring hinge is determined through experimental results rather than through finite element analysis results or theoretical solutions in order to identify the moment-rotation profile accurately. Response surfaces comprising the measured moment-rotation profile and design parameters of a tape spring hinge are generated by a Box-Behnken experimental design. Furthermore, to consider deployment performances such as low latch-up load, latching without overshoot, high deployment stiffness, and high torque margin, the deployment equation is derived by Kane's dynamic equation considering any number of solar panels. The present study proposes a systematic approach for designing tape spring hinges for any number of solar panels; the designed hinges satisfy all design requirements. The approach involves minimizing the cost function including several design requirements and solving the deployment equation containing the response surfaces of the moment-rotation profiles simultaneously. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach, several examples are demonstrated.