DEPLOYMENT SIMULATIONS OF A FOLD-UP SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR ARRAY

Ground deployment testing and modeling for carpenter tape hinges (tape hinges) as deployment and latching devices for space applications are discussed. Due to their reliability and -versatility, tape hinges have gained increased popularity in the aerospace industry. Successful correlation between a simulation and the ground deployment test of a panel array using these hinges, is presented here. This provides confidence in prediction of on-orbit deployment. As a reference for preliminary hinge design, parametric studies are also presented.