Abstract: A deployable mast structure (100) is disclosed, comprising a body configured to adopt a tubular shape when the mast structure is in a deployed configuration, and a plurality of openings (102) formed in a wall of the body so as to define a plurality of integral tape-spring hinges (103) in the wall of the body, the plurality of openings being configured so as to permit the body to collapse along its longitudinal axis into a stowed configuration when the tape-spring hinges are buckled. In the stowed configuration, the integral tape-spring hinges are configured to exert a force which urges the structure towards the deployed configuration. Since the mast structure collapses along its longitudinal axis, the structure only occupies a small volume in the stowed configuration. A method of fabricating the deployable mast structure from a layered composite material is also disclosed.

Abstract: A deployable wrapped rib assembly is disclosed, comprising a hub, a plurality of ribs each being connected to the hub at a fixed angle such that each rib is inclined with respect to a perimeter of the hub, each one of the plurality of ribs being capable of being wrapped around the hub in a stowed configuration and configured to extend from the perimeter of the hub in a deployed configuration, and sheet material connected between the ribs. In a deployed configuration, the sheet material is held taut between the ribs. The ribs may have a lenticular cross-section, and/or may be attached to the hub at an angle with respect to the outer surface of the hub. A method of fabricating the deployable wrapped rib assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A deployable mast structure (100) is disclosed, comprising a body configured to adopt a tubular shape when the mast structure is in a deployed configuration, and a plurality of openings (102) formed in a wall of the body so as to define a plurality of integral tape-spring hinges (103) in the wall of the body, the plurality of openings being configured so as to permit the body to collapse along its longitudinal axis into a stowed configuration when the tape-spring hinges are buckled. In the stowed configuration, the integral tape-spring hinges are configured to exert a force which urges the structure towards the deployed configuration. Since the mast structure collapses along its longitudinal axis, the structure only occupies a small volume in the stowed configuration. A method of fabricating the deployable mast structure from a layered composite material is also disclosed.