Abstract
This research investigates development of lightweight structure solutions for habitats in lunar and other extreme environments through the approach of joining multiple inflatable beams. This provides a continuous cellular structure in the form of a sheet which can be used to create arched structures or a series of connected rings. Key advantages of this approach lie in the separation of structural support and internal habitable environment. Additional advantages exist in the ability to fill the beams fully or partially with various materials for improved strength or radiation benefits. The goal of this research was to develop and test various structural elements related to this design. The final design uses multiple separated vertical arch strapped airbeams, covered with a continuous layer of horizontal water-filled beams for radiation protection. Horizontal beams are connected as one piece, and joined to the structural arches via straps for strength, low weight and high packability. Sizing parameters were determined from trade studies on a wide range of designs, resulting in a large habitable volume yet small stowed volume, designed to package and deploy as one unit to minimize EVA.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | 52nd AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2011 |
Event | 52nd AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference - Denver, CO, United States Duration: Apr 4 2011 → Apr 7 2011 |
Publication series
Name | Collection of Technical Papers - AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference |
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ISSN (Print) | 0273-4508 |
Conference
Conference | 52nd AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | Denver, CO |
Period | 4/4/11 → 4/7/11 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:This work was supported by NASA SBIR NNX10CF08P. The authors wish to thank the contract manager and technical point of contact, Scott Kenner, for his support and many useful comments. The authors also wish to thank Glen Brown of Vertigo, Inc. for his help and many useful discussions.
Funding
This work was supported by NASA SBIR NNX10CF08P. The authors wish to thank the contract manager and technical point of contact, Scott Kenner, for his support and many useful comments. The authors also wish to thank Glen Brown of Vertigo, Inc. for his help and many useful discussions.
Funders | Funder number |
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National Aeronautics and Space Administration | SBIR NNX10CF08P |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Architecture
- General Materials Science
- Aerospace Engineering
- Mechanics of Materials
- Mechanical Engineering