Folding and deployment of closed cross-section dual-matrix composite booms

A dual-matrix composite boom is proposed as a way of realizing a deployable closed cross-section boom that is stiff, lightweight, and can be packaged in small volumes. Little work exists studying the folding and deployment behavior of closed cross-section boom made of composite shells and this paper addresses this by investigating the behavior for two closed cross-section designs. Experimental techniques for measuring the folded shape of curved shells undergoing large deformations is presented. Furthermore, experimental measurements of the moment-rotation response of the two booms are discussed. A study using commercially available finite element software yields simulation techniques for successfully predicting the folded shape of closed-cross section booms. The drawbacks of the software when predicting the moment-rotation response are addressed. The application of these techniques for the chosen designs demonstrate that dual-matrix booms are a promising alternative to existing composite deployable booms.