The phenomenon of thermal flutter of open cross section storable tubular extendible member (STEM) spacecraft booms was first observed in OGO IV and subsequently on a number of other satellites. Theoretical work ultimately ascribed the anomalous, undamped oscillations to the low torsional rigidity of the open section booms. This was confirmed when 'zippered' cross section booms, with substantially higher torsional rigidity, were later flown without exhibiting thermal flutter. However, zippered STEM booms generally have sizeable torsional backlash zones. It is shown here that small amplitude thermoelastic limit cycling within this backlash zone is theoretically possible and is the likely explanation for undamped oscillations recorded on Voyager 1 and 2 in the early stages of the Voyager mission.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Thermoelastic limit cycling of zippered cross section spacecraft booms


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1984-05-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English