Dynamic analysis of the self-locking phenomenon in tape spring hinges

This paper investigates the dynamic behaviour of tape-spring hinges that are commonly used in space deployable structures. During the deployment of an appendice (e.g. a solar panel or a beam), a tape-spring hinge allows the simultaneous achievement of the actuating, guiding and self-locking functions without friction elements. The proposed finite element model is able to capture buckling and hysteresis phenomena, which have a strong influence on the 3D motion of the system. A detailed analysis of those effects is developed, leading to a physical explanation of the crucial self-locking phenomenon.