Scissor-Hinged Deployable Structures Supported Perimetrally on Rectangular Bases

Abstract

Deployable bar structures on a rectangular base present the problems of closing the ends and longitudinal stabilization. Some proposals have been made to resolve them, mainly by creating mouths, but their application to composite geometries is problematic. On-the-bias deployable structures adequately solve both problems as they are supported around their entire perimeter, have a strong three-dimensional operation and only use load-bearing bars. The text analyses this type of deployable structures, their requirements and possibilities. A study on the combination of polar and translational units in a single deployable structure is then carried out, focusing on the study of on-the-bias deployable structures with perimeter polar modules that allow the effective height of the designs to be increased. Finally, the architectural possibilities of the system are studied, which make it possible to resolve overhangs, vertical openings in the roof, and T- or L-shaped ground plans, guaranteeing the modularity of the system.