Rapidly Deployable Space Systems Enabled by Rigid–Elastic Coupling Bistable Scissor Units

Deployable mechanisms are indispensable to most space systems, where rapid and reliable deployment actuation is a critical design criterion. Addressing this need, this article presents two designs for space deployable systems, whose key components are the rigid–elastic coupling bistable translational and polar units that enable rapid and reliable deployment. Theoretical modeling and experiments confirm pronounced bistability and rapid switching capability between the stable states. Integrating the bistable translational units with Miura-ori, a deployable mechanism is designed for the space deployable solar panels system, capable of rapidly switching between the folded and deployed states while maintaining configuration without auxiliary supports, thereby cutting deployment time and weight. Moreover, leveraging the bistable polar units, a deployable gripper is developed, which is capable of efficiently grasping large-scale objects with various shapes, handling multiple objects simultaneously, and capturing high-speed moving targets. Distinguished by their elegant simplicity, rapid and reliable deployment, these designs promise substantial gains in operational efficiency and reliability for space systems.