Abstract
Deployable structures are prefabricated space frames consisting of straight members that can be stored in a compact, folded configuration and can be easily de ployed into a large-volume, load-bearing configuration. A new type of deployable structure offers the further advantage of being stable and stress-free in both of these two limiting configurations. During the deploy ment process, however, geometric incompatibilities cause a nonlinear response and a snap-through type of behavior. Numerical simulation of this phase is a crucial part of designing such structures. This article illustrates how the finite element program ADINA and the supercomputing capabilities of the CRAY-2 were used to simulate the deployment process. This exam ple is used to highlight the impact of continuously de veloping software and hardware technology on engi neering design.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.