Hexagonal Twist Origami Pattern for Deployable Space Arrays

Abstract

The hexagonal twist origami pattern has characteristics that made it a candidate for next-generation deployable space arrays. It has a deployed area that is up to 3.3 times larger than the stowed area, has a single-degree-of-freedom which simplifies actuation, it is flat-foldable making flat positions possible in both stowed and deployed positions, and its rigid foldability means that its motion is enabled by rotation about distinct axes without deformation of its panels. Although the pattern shows promise for deployable systems, it cannot be directly applied with thick materials because of the self-intersection of nesting panels. This paper presents the kinematics and mechanical advantages of the hexagonal twist pattern, addresses the self-intersection problem by implementing five different thickness accommodation techniques and provides metrics for comparing thickness accommodation techniques to determine which would be best suited for a given application. The concepts are demonstrated through two applications: a deployable reflectarray antenna and a LiDAR telescope.

Effects of Panel Misalignment in a Deployable Origami-Based Optical Array

“…3.1 Hexagonal Twist-Based LiDAR Telescope. The hexagonal twist origami pattern has been proposed as both a reflect array antenna and LiDAR telescope [13]. The hexagonal twist has several unique properties that make it a promising candidate for a LiDAR space telescope, including simplicity, symmetry, and a single DOF.…”

“…Suggested areas of application for origami-based systems include solar array concentrators [3], radiative surface heat control [4], origami arrays as actuators [5], energy absorption [6,7], antennas [8,9], automobile airbags [10], biomedical devices [11], and consumer products [12]. They have also been proposed for use as LiDAR telescopes [13].…”

Totimorphic structures for space application

“…Such structures are particularly suited for space environments, where payload mass and volume are tightly constrained, making light structures capable of performing multiple functions highly desirable. For instance, Origami principles have already been used in the development of deployable solar panels and antennae, and applications for other advanced structures, such as NASA's starshade [1], have been proposed [2,3]. However, most deployable space structures are currently limited between strict configurations (typically stowed and deployed), often prohibiting any reconfiguration thereafter.…”