Beam-Type Bending of Space-Based Inflated Membrane Structures

An improved model for the bending behavior of space-based inflated cylindrical shells used as load-bearing beams is developed. This model reflects the biaxial state of stress present in the beam fabric due to the combination of pressurization and structural loads. Also discussed is the dependence of fabric mechanical properties on the level of transverse stress that a fabric element experiences, and how this characteristic is accounted for in the present model. As an accuracy evaluation, the predictions of inflated-beam bending behavior calculated from the new model are compared to experimental data from a previous study. The model predictions agree both in magnitude and shape with the experimental data.