Numerical simulation of wrinkles in space inflatable membrane structures

The finite element simulation technique, based on the explicit time integration method incorporating the model of AIRBAG in LS-DYNA, is conducted to the analysis of the dynamic deformation of wrinkles with time, is discussed. It is robust and capable of producing good quality results, and numerical results can accurately simulate the physical experiment results. There is no obvious change in the analytical results for the different mesh density. The reference mesh is sufficiently fine to produce accurate results. The sudden jumping of the stress curve revealed the fluctuate evolution the occurrence of the new wrinkles. The method can be used to support the structural design of inflatable structures.