This book presents a systematic and comprehensive overview of the authors' recent innovative research on the folding mechanics of deployable composite structures. It begins by introducing foundational concepts, including the energy method, variational principles, and the core theory of composite mechanics. The discussion then advances to detailed theoretical models addressing large deformations across various folding modes-such as the compression and bending of tape-springs, the behavior of helical structures, and the coiling of lenticular, tubular, and bistable composite booms. The book concludes by examining current challenges and offering insights into future research directions in this rapidly evolving field.

Autorentext

Jiang-Bo Bai is an associate professor at Beihang University, China. His research interests include composite mechanics, composite process mechanics, deployable composite structures, flexible composite skin, morphing aircraft, woven and braided composites, and multi-objective optimization. He has led a team in developing innovative composite structures with industrial applications. He is also an associate editor of the Alexandria Engineering Journal.

Tian-Wei Liu is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Aircraft Airworthiness Engineering at Beihang University, China. His expertise lies in the design, modeling, optimization, and manufacturing of deployable composite structures for space applications. He has published extensively on the subject and contributed to a specialized book on deployable composite structures.

Nicholas Fantuzzi is an associate professor at the University of Bologna, Italy. His research focuses on the mechanics of solids and structures, fracture mechanics, numerical methods for structural design, and deployable composite structures. He has held visiting professor positions at City University of Hong Kong, Chongqing University, and the University of Rijeka. He is the editor-in-chief of Composite Structures and associate editor of the Alexandria Engineering Journal.