ABSTRACTIn attempts to provide an active solution for the rigidization of flexible space structures, internal resistive heating is applied to a novel thermosetting resin. Carbon-fiber tow coated in U-Nyte Set 201A, which cures at ∼150°C, was heated by passing electric current through the reinforcing material. Using a proportional-integral (PI) controller, precise temperature control of the heating process was established. Samples cured via controlled internal resistive heating were heated to 160°C and underwent material consolidation in less than 7 minutes. A change in material stiffness was measured to be almost two orders of magnitude greater than that of an uncured material.
Shape, Motion, and Parameter Estimation of Flexible Space Structures using Laser Rangefinders
