BAND-DRIVE SUSPENSION MECHANISM DESIGN FOR GROUND-BASED TESTING OF FLEXIBLE SPACE STRUCTURES

A suspension system based on a band mechanism is investigated to provi de the free-free conditions for ground-based validation testing of fle xible space structures. The band mechanism consists of a noncircular d isk with a convex profile, preloaded by torsional springs at its cente r of rotation so that static equilibrium of the test structure is main tained at any vertical location; gravitational force will be directly counteracted during dynamic testing of the space structure. This nonci rcular disk within the suspension system can be configured to remain u nchanged for test articles with different weights as long as the torsi onal spring is replaced to maintain the originally designed frequency parameter of W/k(s). Simulations of test articles which are modelled a s lumped-parameter as well as continuous parameter systems are also pr esented.