Membrane and cable elements will be used effectively in various future large space structure systems. Because they are tension elements, they are very light weight and highly efficient. And since they are easily slowed, they are also very suitable for space transportation. In the research on 2D (two-dimensionally deployable) array systems, the major object is to clarify the characteristics of this kind of tension structure. The 2D array system will be launched in a small module as seen in the top-left photograph. It will deploy a triangle membrane, shown in the bottom photograph, which is folded by means of a special stowage and deployment scheme (Miura-ori). In this scheme, large structures may be easily constructed in space by simply pulling the ends of the stowed surface. Another important objective is the development of an efficient deployable solar cell array as a real application for 2D array systems.
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