NASA's Space Fabric

Overview

JPL submitted an article on a "4-D" printed fabric that could be used to protect objects in space. I used the images and attempted to create a model as close to the original as possible. I modified the model so that the reflective surface would be printed last (on top). This allows the surface to be smoother and more similar to the model.

My segments are not as small as those in the image from NASA. This is due to the diameter of the linking arms. In the image, the linking arms are probably close to 1 mm. At that diameter, my printer can not print the linking arms accurately.

The attached files are 2 X the size of the NASA segments with a linking arm diameter of 2 mm and top size of 16 x 16 mm. The pitch between the segments is 10 mm. This model scales easily if you have a printer with a better resolution.

Modifications

Combine Assemblies

I've remixed the segments to create a Cap and Base. This allows you to combine assemblies where the final dimensions would be greater then your printer bed allows for. An example of this is the NASA Chainmail Tie.

Hex Chainmail

I remixed the original segment to mate on six sides with a hexagonal pattern. This model has a pitch of 23 mm.

Equilateral Triangle

Per DavidPhillipOster's recomendation I've designed a similar part using an equilateral triangle. I've maintained the design thickness and ratios. This design illustrates well the trade-off between the number of sides and the face density. Parts: triangle_nascha.stl and triangle_hexpat.stl

Parts

• The segments are 2X_SEGMENT.stl
• I've uploaded a 3x3 section of the 2X segments as 3x3_ASM.stl
• The cap and base segments are
  • 2X_CAP.stl
  • 2X_BASE.stl
• The hexagonal parts are
  • Segment: simnas6_2x_seg.stl
  • Assembly over a 100 x 100 mm area: simnas6_2x_asm.stl
• Equilateral Triangle
  • Segment: triangle_nascha.stl
  • Assembly: triangle_hexpat.stl