Development of a Self deploying Articulated Spacecraft Boom

There are several variations of deployable booms, but for systems that need precise stability, articulated trusses are unequalled because they can use low coefficient of thermal expansion materials and provide the requisite stiffness. Articulated booms all require a motor and deployment mechanism to form the boom once on orbit. The current state of the art deployment mechanisms, used in articulated booms are large, massive and complex, requiring power from the host spacecraft to deploy. For small satellites the volume mass and power requirements often preclude the use of these booms and limit the mission capability. Starsys Research has been developing articulated boom systems for several years. Recent improvements in boom technology and developments in composite material hinges has made it feasible to develop a self-deploying articulated boom that does not require the motorized deployment mechanism of current booms. This new type of self-deploying articulated boom will enhance the capabilities of small satellites and reduce costs when it is applied. Applications of such a boom are to deploy quadrifilar antennas, magnetometers, gravity gradient masses, attitude control thrusters or optical instruments.