Research of an Entry Vehicle with Semi-Rigid Trapezoid Deployable Structures

The growing interest in entry vehicles for Mars exploration has underscored the need for a decelerator with the ability to deploy and withstand significant loads. To address this challenge, we proposed a design concept for an entry vehicle featuring semi-rigid trapezoid deployable structures (SRTDS). This design involves a deployable mechanism consisting of 7R loops, which serves as the frame for flexible thermal protection structures (FTPS). By combining this mechanism with FTPS, we were able to create a semi-rigid trapezoid deployable structure. To evaluate the performance of this concept, we conducted a three-degree-of-freedom (3DoF) trajectory simulation to predict the aerodynamic parameters of the CubeSat-sized entry vehicle. Additionally, a statics simulation was performed with the results in trajectory simulation. The deformation and stress were analysed and the modal simulation of configurations was performed. The results suggested that SRTDS system could reduce 79.12% deformation of the FTPS comparing with ADEPT system.