A structurally adaptive space crane concept for assembling space systems on orbitA space crane concept is presented which is based on erectable truss hardware to achieve high stiffness and low mass booms and articulating-truss joints which can be assembled on orbit. The hardware is characterized by linear load-deflection response and is structurally predictable. The crane can be reconfigured into different geometries to meet future assembly requirements. Articulating-truss joint concepts with significantly different geometries are analyzed and found to have similar static and dynamic performance, which indicates that criteria other than structural and kinematic performance can be used to select a joint. Passive damping and an open-loop preshaped command input technique greatly enhance the structural damping in the space crane and may preclude the need for an active vibrations suppression system.
Document ID
19930036302
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Dorsey, John T. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Sutter, Thomas R. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Wu, K. C. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
November 1, 1992
Subject Category
Spacecraft Design, Testing And Performance
Meeting Information
Meeting: International Conference on Adaptive Structures