Numerical simulation of deployable ultra-thin composite shell structures for space applications and comparison with experiments

In the present article, geometrical nonlinear behavior of deployable booms undergoing large displacements and rotations is investigated. The triangular rollable collapsible boom made fiber-reinforced composite materials considered along with a metallic tape spring. mathematical model makes use higher-order 1D structural theories based on Carrera unified formulation, which allows description moderate nonlinearities to deep post-buckling mechanics ultra-thin shells in hierarchical scalable manner. Particular attention focused study equilibrium paths subjected coiling bending. Dedicated experimental tests reveal validity proposed finite element approach, whereas investigation different lamination sequences offer valuable perspective for possible future designs.