Recent Progress on Weave-reinforced-shape-memory-composite Based Space Deployable Truss

A rotational joint for shape morphing space truss structures

A rotational joint is introduced for use in shape morphing or deployable space truss structures. The joint is a chain mechanism comprising up to six pivoted linkages that provide a compact mechanism for the connection of up to six structures at a node. The total number of degrees of freedom for a constrained joint mechanism with six links is found. A closed chain model is then used to determine...

Deployable Soft Composite Structures

Deployable structure composed of smart materials based actuators can reconcile its inherently conflicting requirements of low mass, good shape adaptability, and high load-bearing capability. This work describes the fabrication of deployable structures using smart soft composite actuators combining a soft matrix with variable stiffness properties and hinge-like movement through a rigid skeleton....

Recent Progress in Allergen Immunotherapy

The efficacy of allergen immunotherapy for the treatment of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis with or without seasonal bronchial asthma and anaphylaxis caused by the sting of the hymenoptera class of insects has been clearly demonstrated in numerous well-designed, placebo-controlled trials. Immunotherapy whether by subcutaneous injection of allergen extract or by oral/sublingual routes modifies peri...

Recent Progress on PEDOT-Based Thermoelectric Materials

The thermoelectric properties of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-based materials have attracted attention recently because of their remarkable electrical conductivity, power factor, and figure of merit. In this review, we summarize recent efforts toward improving the thermoelectric properties of PEDOT-based materials. We also discuss thermoelectric measurement techniques and several un...

Recent Progress in Space Photovoltaic Systems