← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
We propose novel origami based deployable and rigidizable composites for load bearing space structures to solve the issues of the low buckling strength of the composite tubular boom structure and gas leakage of inflatable structure by developing novel rigidizable materials. The advantage over the deployable composite tubular booms or inflatable structures is higher bucking strength and no need to refill gas to maintain the structure. After completing this project, the STMD will gain the novel deployable composites for ‘load bearing’ space structures. We anticipate that MISSE flight test might delay our project and have alternative plan to deliver the simulated space environment test with collaboration with MSFC. The successful completion of the proposed research provides new multifunctional origami-based deployable load-bearing building substructures for lunar/Mars habitats and payload transfer systems
The main goal of this proposed effort is to provide novel origami-based deployable composites for load-bearing structures. For the first year study, shape memory polymer based hinge material (soft but rigidizable) was developed and the folding/deployment performance was successfully demonstrated. We plan to pursue GCD funding to develop the real scale deployable structure that can be infused into the current space mission. If proposal is not renewed, STMD will miss out on a new promising deployable composite for load-bearing structure for which current composite tubular boom or inflatable structure can not be used for. In addition, this technology can be used in a range of terrestrial applications in the aeronautics industry and military applications (mobile barrack and armor).
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.