The Inexpensive Structure and Materials Flight Experiment (INFLEX) validates new technologies for space that can reduce cost and improve the performance of future precision structure space programs. These technologies include advanced sensors, structural modeling, actuators, system identification, active control algorithms, health monitoring, passive damping, and advanced composites. The INFLEX payload consists of a 16-foot deployable structure, avionics, control system actuators, and structural sensors. The entire payload structure is hinged with the spacecraft bus and is controlled by an extendible strut. Sensors and proof-mass actuators are distributed on the structure to conduct dynamics and control experiments. Two video cameras (wide and narrow field of view) monitor deployment, assess structural status, and quantitatively monitor structural motion. The data acquisition Remote Units, located on each rib and the central tower, interface to the actuators and sensors mounted nearby. The payload processor is mounted on the thermally controlled bulkhead of the spacecraft bus, and communicates with the Remote Units and the spacecraft to control all experiment hardware.


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    Title :

    INFLEX: an inexpensive structure and materials flight experiment


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Smart Structures and Materials 1993: Smart Structures and Intelligent Systems ; 1993 ; Albuquerque,NM,United States


    Published in:

    Publication date :

    1993-09-08





    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



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