Shape memory polymer composite and its application in deployable hinge for space structure

This paper is concerned about the basic properties of deployment for shape memory polymer composite (SMPC) and its application in deployable hinge for space structure. Shape-memory polymers (SMP) are an emerging class of active polymers that have dual-shape capability. One of another advantage, compared with other traditional material hinge, the SMPC carpenter type hinge is that it will not produce a large shock when it spring into the deployed position. There are several kinds of shape memory polymer composite (fiber reinforced, powder reinforced, etc,). Epoxy SMPs, carbon fibre fabric reinforced SMPC was introduced in this work. In order to investigate the basic performances of SMPC hinge, the experimental methods are used as follows: dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), three point bending test and the radio of shape recovery. In the end, the structure of the carpenter type hinge is introduced. The carpenter type hinge is one mechanism that has the advantage of high-reliability of the deployment; light weighted, and low cost. This SMPC carpenter type hinge performs good deployment performances during numerous thermomechanical cycles. So the potential applications for such materials as active medical devices are highlighted.