Rigidizable Structures & Technologies - ILC Dover

Rigidization is a process by which a soft structure becomes rigid when exposed to some controlled influence. We have developed this technology to create products that can take advantage of the benefits of an inflatable structure (lightweight and compact packaging) while also having the advantages of rigid composites (stiffness and no reliance on pressurization).

ILC has developed a number of rigidization approaches and resin chemistries for application to a wide variety of structural reinforcements, tube construction techniques, and complex shaped structures. We have worked with shape memory polymer materials, thermally cured and photo-initiated curing systems. Foam inflation for rigidization has also been applied. We have pushed the state of the art in rigidizable materials with our near-zero CTE carbon composites that can be packed and deployed without damage.

We have used our unique composite materials in the design and fabrication of ultra-lightweight structures in the form of tubes that can be joined and complex shapes. Tube geometries include monocoque, isogrid, isotruss, and truss structures. Numerous complex shaped rigidizable structures have been developed including parabolic antennas, UAV wings, hinges, tank liners, and airlocks.

We have the facilities and capabilities to design, analyze, manufacture and test an array of materials and structures at ILC.

Rigidizable Carbon Reinforced Composite Tubes (Thermally Cured, SMP Isogrid, SMP Truss, UV Cured Isogrid

The SMP Rigidization Process (Fabricate, Heat, Flatten & Fold) And Close Up on Undamaged Folded Carbon Composite

Complex Shaped Rigidizable Composite Structures (Joined Tubes and Reflectors) With Embedded Electronic Components