Testing of Membrane Space Structure Shape Control Using Genetic Algorithm

This paper investigates the application of the genetic algorithm in active control of inflatable structures. The algorithm is used to search for the optimal tensions, which minimize membrane wrinkles. A genetic algorithm-based control system is developed using MATLAB, LabView, and Automation Manager. The control system is tested on a 200 x 300 mm rectangular Kapton membrane pulled by three tensions along each edge. Different tension combinations are exerted onto the membrane through SMA actuators. All tensions are calculated through the strains of a thin aluminum strip installed in the tension links. A vision system is developed to measure the membrane flatness under different tension combinations. Testing results show that the genetic algorithm works very well in finding the optimal tensions.