In order to store and transport large structures, such as satellites antennas or solar sails, there is the need to compactly fold these systems and to design their deployment once their destination is reached. In this project we explore how these large structures could be constructed from unit tiles that can deform leading to a change in shape of the overall structure, from a folded state to a deployed one. The unit tiles are constructed in such a way that they can assume two different configurations, i.e., they are stable in two different elastic configurations. In this project we use computational models to investigate the shape that could be achieved using bistable tiles and carry out preliminary experiments to test the unit tiles elastic configurations via 3D printing.
Project Dates
Start Date: 1/8/2024 - End Date: 4/27/2024
Students Needed
Type of Project
Team
Student Responsibilities
The successful applicant will help with: 1) Exploring the literature to analyze existing designs for deformable/bistable unit tiles; 2) 3D printing and testing the selected design; 3) Experimenting with new designs as time allows.
Time Commitment
10 hour(s)
Student Requirements
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Creativity; Knowledge or interest in learning how to use a 3D printer and experimenting with different designs and ideas; Positive attitude and enthusiasm. |
Interested in Working With the Following Programs
For EXCEL URE Students Only
Additional Notes