Design and Dynamic Analysis of Rigid Foldable Aeroshells for Atmospheric Entry

A novel rigid deployable aeroshell architecture has been developed, where panels with a thermal protection system layer are connected between retractable ribs. Following origami principles, an optimal fold pattern is selected and imposed on the to ensure efficient flat stowage during launch repeatable deployment. The design process includes minimizing number of folds reduce stacking height maximizing angles each line avoid unfavorable aerothermodynamic response. dynamic behavior analyzed aid multibody analysis model. Results from model show that deployment highly sensitive panel geometry (especially thickness hinge design). Robust, repeatable, controllable most readily achieved small (but nonzero) selection interpanel hinges, which allow degree over-rotation, avoiding premature hard stop, would otherwise prevent full Modeled results have verified through experimental testing 0.4-m-diam scale