Deployable Soft Space Structures : Concepts and Application Requirements

Recognizing these benefits, “inflat able” modules also present certain special constraints and requirements compared with conventional hard shell structures. One of the most significant of these relates to problematic pre -integrat ion of hardware and utility systems, requiring that hook -ups b e undertaken manually following inflation by flight crew . In addition, these technologies are not nearly as well proven as hard shell systems for long -duration durability under harsh space environment conditions. Many promising inflatable applications invo lve hybrid hard -soft structures which combine inherent advantages of both approaches. This paper present s a variety of examples , including small and large orbital and planetary surface applications . These examples draw upon a brief history of international experience s and representative projects undertaken by SICSA.