Engineering Framework for Assessing Materials and Processes for In-Space Manufacturing
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11665_2022_Article_6755.pdf
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2.49 MB
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d7c654cbfd17e0c0500a5a556efe242a
Author(s) • •
Bhundiya, Harsh G.
Royer, Fabien
Cordero, Zachary
Date Issued
March 2022
Journal
Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance
Publisher
Springer US
Citation
Bhundiya, Harsh G., Royer, Fabien and Cordero, Zachary. 2022. "Engineering Framework for Assessing Materials and Processes for In-Space Manufacturing."
Version
Final published version
Abstract
Abstract
In-space manufacturing is a candidate approach for constructing next-generation space structures with larger characteristic dimensions than modern deployable structures. While many construction methods have been proposed, analysis of their performance for building precision structures, such as large-diameter reflectors, is scarce. In this paper, we present a quantitative, system-level comparison of materials and processes for in-space manufacturing. By using performance metrics for thermal stability, resistance to disturbance loads, and minimal-mass buckling strength, we identify candidate feedstock materials. Then, using the metrics of energy consumption and accuracy, we compare candidate processing methods and find that deformation processing is a promising on-orbit manufacturing method. We synthesize the analysis with a case study on the construction of a tetrahedral truss supporting a reflector surface and provide guidelines for assessing materials and processes for in-space manufacturing.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Terms of Use
Creative Commons Attribution
Persistent DSpace Link
DOI of Published Version
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11665-022-06755-y