on each side in this closed loop deployable structure is always equal to one less than the

number of layers on that side. An 'L' shaped angular column comprises of two plates

welded perpendicular to each other on any one edge along the length.


















 Figure 2-3. Plate with four hinges

2.1.3 Compressible Struts

 The struts consist of two members, (Figure 2-4), connected by a prismatic joint.

The top member is a solid rod with a circular plate at the bottom, while the bottom

member is a tube with an inner diameter equal to that of the plate in the top member. The

length of the bottom member is chosen to be equal to the height of the deployed structure.

The top and bottom members are always connected even when the structure is fully

deployed due to the presence of a hard stop at the top end of the bottom member. The

bottom member also houses a spring which in turn is always at an angle with respect to

the plates and columns.