Origami for deployment of Rigid Panel Array during Space Applications

Deployable rigid panels have wide applications in space sector. They can be used for power generation via solar cells, communication via phased array panels and service needs via modules on space station. These panels can be designed for deployment in different ways including the commonly used active hinge driven system. However, this active hinge-based design has limitations in terms of scalability as well as need for large number of actuators. It is beneficial to have a design based on single actuation for deployment of a large array of rigid panels. In this regard, origami-based design holds promising potential.