Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Joshua Shuster, Junior Angelina Scalice, Sophomore Jackson Schuler, Graduate Student Dr. Daewon Kim, Faculty Mentor
Lead Presenter's Name
Joshua Shuster
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Engineering
Faculty Mentor Name
Daewon Kim
Abstract
This study investigates the application of composite materials in deployable architecture, focusing on reducing stress in load-bearing origami structures, a persistent challenge in the field. By integrating origami-inspired designs with composite hinges, this approach enables complexity reduction in deployable systems without compromising strength or flexibility. Virtual load testing was conducted on several simulated origami structures, composed of facet panels reinforced with stringers and honeycomb core materials, connected by composite hinges. These simulations identified the most effective folding patterns and established the minimum hinge strength required for structural integrity. To validate material performance, composite hinge coupons were fabricated using novel manufacturing techniques, with variations in lay-up parameters and resin-uptake prevention methods. Testing confirmed that Kevlar was the most effective flexible hinge material, while vegetable-based shortening successfully prevented resin infiltration, exhibiting strong resistance to deformation under tensile loading. Further testing determined the optimal hinge layup configuration, with the best-performing samples withstanding over fifteen times the maximum operational stress while maintaining ±180° flexibility. A scaled-down physical prototype of the origami structure was subsequently constructed to demonstrate real-world flexibility, leading to refinements in hinge modeling to better align with physical performance. These findings highlight the potential of this system for applications in extraterrestrial habitats and microgravity environments, including deployable solar arrays and thermal radiators. Future research will focus on refining manufacturing processes, optimizing material selection, and improving resin-uptake prevention techniques to enhance overall performance and reliability.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
Yes, Spark Grant
Implementation of Semi-Living Composite Hinges in Origami-Inspired Deployable Structures
This study investigates the application of composite materials in deployable architecture, focusing on reducing stress in load-bearing origami structures, a persistent challenge in the field. By integrating origami-inspired designs with composite hinges, this approach enables complexity reduction in deployable systems without compromising strength or flexibility. Virtual load testing was conducted on several simulated origami structures, composed of facet panels reinforced with stringers and honeycomb core materials, connected by composite hinges. These simulations identified the most effective folding patterns and established the minimum hinge strength required for structural integrity. To validate material performance, composite hinge coupons were fabricated using novel manufacturing techniques, with variations in lay-up parameters and resin-uptake prevention methods. Testing confirmed that Kevlar was the most effective flexible hinge material, while vegetable-based shortening successfully prevented resin infiltration, exhibiting strong resistance to deformation under tensile loading. Further testing determined the optimal hinge layup configuration, with the best-performing samples withstanding over fifteen times the maximum operational stress while maintaining ±180° flexibility. A scaled-down physical prototype of the origami structure was subsequently constructed to demonstrate real-world flexibility, leading to refinements in hinge modeling to better align with physical performance. These findings highlight the potential of this system for applications in extraterrestrial habitats and microgravity environments, including deployable solar arrays and thermal radiators. Future research will focus on refining manufacturing processes, optimizing material selection, and improving resin-uptake prevention techniques to enhance overall performance and reliability.