Mechanical calculation of elastic folding of a thin-walled deployable composite boom for space applications

AbstractThe paper investigates the stress–strain state of a thin-walled deployable N-shaped composite boom during elastic folding. A finite element model using ANSYS 2021 R2 software (explicit formulation) is developed, considering boundary conditions, loads, and analysis parameters. Numerical calculations are performed for various cylindrical mandrel radii, revealing a strong dependence on maximum stress on the mandrel radius. Results indicate reliable folding without damage for a mandrel radius of 20 mm or more. This study solves the complex problem of modeling elastic folding, providing essential information for engineers to achieve an optimal design.Keywords: Composite materialthin-walled composite shellsdeployable composite boomsfinite element modelnumerical calculationexplicit solverelastic foldingdamagestrength AcknowledgmentsThe work was carried out within the framework of the state task of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation on the topic FEFE-2020-0015.Additional informationFundingThis work was supported by Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation