Research on the Dynamics of the Space Tubular Expandable Structure Driving Deployment Unit

The limitations associated with traditional screw-based and cable-based deployment mechanisms for space deployable structures, such as stiffness, accuracy, distance, are effectively overcome by introducing the concept of a variable diameter internal drive device. To enhance stability during discontinuous surface transition phase inside tubular structure, thin-walled flexible beam structure is adopted driving unit. analysis employs spatial absolute nodal coordinate formulation, integrating pose states each node into global system. three-dimensional displacement field rotational angle changes at different time intervals obtained using unit shape function matrix Kirchhoff theory. Subsequently, dynamic model corresponding nodes established virtual work principle. This significant improvement enhances characteristics coupled rigid-flexible deformation under radial axial external forces, surpassing previously used structure. simulation performed finite element method validated through experimental tests. results confirm unit’s successful achievement desired functionalities, demonstrated endpoint displacement, centroid trajectory rotation angle.