Inflation and Packaging simulation of a Subscale Inflatable Module (IMOD) for Manned Space Applications
Nebiolo, M¹; Langlois, S²; Palmieri, P¹; Augello, G¹; Manfredi, L¹; Granville, D³; Cruccas, C^3
1Thales Alenia Space - Italia; ²ESA ESTEC; ³SAMTECH

After the successful completion of the activities related to the Phase I in which all the critical technologies have been developed and tested at samples level, Thales Alenia Space Italia (TAS-I) has also completed the Phase II activities on the Inflatable Module (IMOD) program, with the outstanding teaming support of its subcontractors.

The work of this Phase II has been focused on the design, manufacturing and testing of a highly representative subscale breadboard structure for an inflatable manned module applicable to both orbiting and surface habitat in next future space exploration missions.

The main IMOD breadboard sizes are given by a diameter of 3.3 m and a height of 2 m. The module shape is derived from the baseline selected in previous system level studies (e.g. IHAB) performed by TAS-I for ESA. The presence of a lateral window is another peculiar aspect of the IMOD breadboard configuration with important impacts on the here described SW simulation aspects.

With the aim to evaluate the inflatable shell structural behaviour and drive the packaging activities, during the completed IMOD design phase, dedicated FE models and simulations have been prepared and run by both TAS-I and SAMTECH.

The main simulation activities and results are described in this paper to illustrate the complexity of the analysis process which has led to the evaluation of the inflatable shell strength capabilities and to the set-up of the packaging and gravity release tooling as well as to the relevant procedures to perform ground testing. Issues and lessons learned on simulation aspects during the project timeframe are also presented.

Final packaging and pressurization SW simulation achievements are described and documented by dedicated movies and pictures.