On-orbit shape correction of inflatable structures

M. Salama, C. Kuo, J. Garba, B. Wada
1994 Adaptive Structures Forum   unpublished
Piezo induced deformations are proposed as a means of achieving a higher degree of on-orbit surface accuracy of inflatable antennas. A series of tests were performed on an inflated circular membrane and an inflated tube, both made of off-theshelf piezo film. The same configurations were also analyzed to validate the tests. The concept was demonstrated qualitatively in spite of a discrepancy between the analysis and test results, most likely due to inaccurate knowledge of the piezoelectric coefficients of the film.
doi:10.2514/6.1994-1771 fatcat:v5dujsblqzfvte4y46mznb7dma