Active Shape Control of Spinning Membrane Space Structures and Its Application to Solar Sailing

Abstract

Spinning-type membrane space structures easily deform because they have no supporting structure. This may lead to an unexpected change in the effect of solar radiation pressure (SRP) on the membranes. Since SRP is a dominant factor of the dynamics of membrane space structures, especially for solar sails, knowledge of deformation is vital. However, it is almost impossible to precisely predict and design the actual deformation of membranes. This study provides a method to actively control the deformation of spinning membrane space structures. A completely fuel-free solar sailing technique is also shown as one application of the shape-control method developed.