An Overview of Dynamics Modeling of Inflatable Solar Array

Abstract

The inflatable solar array (ISA) is a new kind of solar array. It has many advantages over the traditional ones, because it can be packaged into small volumes during launch, then sent into a pre-selected orbit, and finally deployed by its inflatable booms. This paper gives a brief overview of development of inflatable space structure dynamics during the last two decades, and covers the highlights of the work that has been done during this time interval. Some of the dynamic model of space inflatable booms and current development efforts are introduced, and future outlook for this promising structures technology is indicated.