Project F12 explorers the possibilities presented by modular habitat construction using rhombic dodecahedra.
Classification: Z1i <-> Z2ii
Rendering of a linear oriented configuration of F12 modules.
Hollow, spherical configuration of F12 modules showing maintenance/construction in a work bay.
Hollow, spherical configuration of F12 modules showing recreation.
Potential types of panel insert modules. Installation and replacement of the inserts occurs on the inside face.
A cross-section of the same rhombic dodecahedron configuration for each of GCR and SPE. The small numbers indicate the effective number of shields against the radiation, while the large numbers indicate the aggregate protection for each module as the sum of its barriers.
Hollow, spherical configurations of F12 modules with open interior volumes. Cross section through module shown in blue. Open interior volume shown in red.
Comparative dihedral angles, face tensions, and joint forces (red) for various polyhedral figures under internal pressure.
The four deployment profiles: simultaneous, individual, staged, and progressive.
An example of a linear path through a face graph of a rhombic dodecahedron.
Illustration of the convex and reflex angle panel rotation.
Illustration of a dual torsion spring for a NiTi actuator.
Illustration of a single torsion spring for a NiTi actuator.
The Future Unfolds - Simplifying Polyhedral Space Habitat Module Deployment Using a Contiguous Unfolding Method
IAC 2024 - Milan, Italy
Abstract:
The concept of polyhedral space habitat modules has been proposed as an improvement over cylindrical modules for decades and has increased in popularity in recent years. Polyhedral modules have the potential to enable the construction of large-scale habitat construction. However, the efficient deployment of polyhedral space habitat modules presents significant challenges. There are two established methods for the deployment of polyhedral habitats: quasi-stochastic assembly and origami-like deployment. Each of these methods have unique drawbacks including risk of loss, complex control mechanisms, excessive deployment hardware, panel thickness limitations, deployment ratio limitations, shape limitations. While overcoming these challenges is critical in ensuring the practicality of polyhedral module deployment, the specific method used to solve these challenges will have a significant impact on the cost and feasibility of the entire system. The ideal method for polyhedral habitat deployment should be simple, inexpensive, and reliable. This paper proposes a straightforward method for the deployment of polyhedral space habitat modules, utilizing a contiguous unfolding technique for flat-packed panels. Diverging from established methods, this method employs a linear process wherein flat-packed panels are rotated about their edges through mechanical means to form their final three-dimensional shape. The goal of this research was to verify the feasibility of this contiguous unfolding technique using digital simulations. A principal finding of this research is the successful, collision-free demonstration of the unfolding process for panels with non-trivial thickness. This verification promises a simple, inexpensive, and reliable deployment method which overcomes the limitations inherent in the established methods. Future research should focus on increasing the technology readiness level of this deployment method through either parabolic flight or on-orbit experimentation. This contiguous unfolding deployment method represents a fresh perspective in the growing field of polyhedral space habitat module construction and contributes to more efficient and feasible solutions for large-scale habitat construction.
Morphology of Polyhedral Space Habitat Modules -
Identifying the Ideal Form Using Multi-Criteria Analysis
IAC 2023 — Baku, Azerbaijan
Acta Astronautica
Abstract:
Over the past fifty years, the form and function of space habitat modules have remained largely unchanged. While cylindrical modules are relatively simple to transport and deploy, their limited size poses a challenge to their efficiency and usability. In contrast, large space habitat construction projects are costly and present logistical difficulties. The development of polyhedral modules could bridge the gap between these two approaches, allowing for modular, polyhedral units to be assembled and linked together to create larger habitats more efficiently and with less risk. However, identifying the most suitable polyhedron for use in space remains a critical question. Previous research has explored the construction of polyhedral modules, but little rigor has been applied to identifying the most optimal form. This is a crucial issue because the first module to be used will likely set the standard for subsequent modules and any disadvantages present at that time will be perpetuated. Therefore, it is essential to identify the optimal form prior to constructing prototypes. This research paper employs multi-criteria decision analysis and sensitivity analysis to compare various candidate polyhedra across several evaluation metrics, including number of faces, volume to surface area ratio, and joint stress, among several other quantitative and qualitative metrics. The results demonstrate that the Rhombic Dodecahedron is a particularly suitable candidate compared to other forms analyzed. Thus, the Rhombic Dodecahedron should be considered the standard polyhedral form for future research involving the development of polyhedral modules.
Deployment of a Module
The panels are stacked, alternating inside face to inside face, outside face to outside face, etc. When in position, the faces unfold in a manner where they will not collide with one another. There are four identified deployment profiles: individual, staged, progressive, and simultaneous (the progressive profile is displayed in the nearby animation.
Once the panels have achieved the shape of a rhombic dodecahedron they will cease rotating; they will not instigate a roll due to the conservation of angular momentum.
Process Sketches
