The challenge aims to find solutions to build bigger structures in space. Our project helps to make modules with both big internal volume and structural purposes.

Thanks to the reduced mass and volume the modules are easier to be maneuvered on orbit and automatically connected to other parts of the structure. In addition the launch becomes cheaper making more convenient on orbit assembly.

ERMESS' main innovation is that his cover becames stiff once unfolded making it suitable for joining different parts of the space structure.

The cover is made of 4 different layers, from the outside: radiation schield, plastic to contatin the liquid resin, pre-preg carbon fyber with resin, another plastic layer, ERMESS is transported folded as an origami with the the pre-preg carbon fiber contained between the two layers of plastic material in order not to lose resin.

The selected origami shape gives several advantages which make the unfolding possible. Any surface of the origami doesn't change his shape during the transformation but all the deformation is localized along the edges. In addition the folds don't need a small edge preventing relative moving of the layers.

The expantion of the module is made possible by the pressure of a gas released inside of it. The chosen gas is common air in order to make it recyclable for next usage. However different gases can be used.

Once completely inflated the resin cures. The curing process can be triggered by solar UV light or heat depending on what kind of resin has been selected. It's interesting to note that the liquid resin helps to absorb vibration throughout the all structure during assembling and inflating.

When the cover is soft it is supported by a structure of alluminium beams. They give to the module the required strength during take off and docking and guide the unfolding process defining the folds position. For this reason they are placed along origami's fold forcing the cover to follow a large curvature radius which prevents relative movements of the layers and resin leaks on the edges. Once ERMESS is infladed they take a structural purpose but secoundary from the carbon fiber shell.