Abstract: Telescoping boom systems, devices, and methods are provided in accordance with various embodiments. For example, some embodiments include zero dead band telescoping boom systems, devices, and methods. Embodiments in general include hard stop preloading mechanisms for telescoping booms with multiple tube segments. Some embodiments provide components that facilitate the deployment sequencing of the multiple tube segments along with facilitating preloading of the multiple tube segments of a telescoping boom. The tools and techniques provided may be integrated into the multiple tube segments rather than being provided as a separate system. Some embodiments allow for precise deployment of the multiple tube segments of the telescoping boom systems, devices, and methods.

Abstract: Distributed flexible membrane backing systems, devices, and methods are provided in accordance with various embodiments. Some embodiments utilize distributed backing structures in lieu of a central boom technology or rigid panel structure. Disaggregating the structural component generally allows the structure mass and volume to be distributed more efficiently across the backside of the flexible membrane, such as a photovoltaic membrane. This distribution generally enables an increased number of structural support points (within the deployed flexible membrane), which may increase the performance of the flexible membrane. Some embodiments interface the structure and the membranes throughout the entire surface of the deployed membrane. The distribution of structure may allow more efficient stowage of the deployable structure.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and device for bendable flat heat pipes are provided in accordance with various embodiments. For example, some embodiments include a device that includes one or more containment layers. A wick and vapor layer may be positioned between two containment layers or between two portions of a containment layer; the wick and vapor layer may include both wick and vapor channels. Some embodiments include multiple cross ribs that may run laterally on either side or both sides of the wick and vapor layer. In some embodiments, the containment layer(s), the wick and vapor layer, and the multiple cross ribs are bonded with each other to form the device. In addition, the device may be charged with a working fluid.

Abstract: Telescoping boom systems, devices, and methods are provided in accordance with various embodiments. For example, some embodiments include zero dead band telescoping boom systems, devices, and methods. Embodiments in general include hard stop preloading mechanisms for telescoping booms with multiple tube segments. Some embodiments provide components that facilitate the deployment sequencing of the multiple tube segments along with facilitating preloading of the multiple tube segments of a telescoping boom. The tools and techniques provided may be integrated into the multiple tube segments rather than being provided as a separate system. Some embodiments allow for precise deployment of the multiple tube segments of the telescoping boom systems, devices, and methods.

Abstract: Deployable radiator devices, systems, and methods utilizing composite laminates are provide in accordance with various embodiments. For example, some embodiments include a deployable radiator system. The system may include one or more radiators and one or more thermally-conductive, bendable hinges. Each respective thermally-conductive, bendable hinge from the one or more thermally-conductive, bendable hinges may be coupled with a respective radiator from the one or more radiators. Each respective thermally-conductive, bendable hinge from the one or more thermally-conductive, bendable hinges may be configured to conduct heat to the respective radiator from the one or more radiators. Some embodiments include one or more heat pipes, which may be flat. Some embodiments include heat pipes with vapor channels and liquid channels configured in a same plane of the heat pipe. Methods of utilizing the systems and/or devices may be also provided.