Structural performance of space station trusses with missing members

Abstract

Structural performance of orthogonal tetrahedral and Warren-type full truss beams and platforms are compared. In addition, degradation of truss structural performance is determined for beams, platforms and a space station when individual struts are removed from the trusses. The truss beam, space station, and truss platform analytical models used in the studies are described. Stiffness degradation of the trusses due to single strut failures is determined using flexible body vibration modes. Ease of strut replacement is assessed by removing a strut and examining the truss deflection at the resulting gap due to applied forces. Finally, the reduction in truss beam strength due to a missing longeron is determined for a space station transverse boom model.