Advanced Capability for Modeling Multi-Link Mechanisms with TRASYS

An advanced capability for modeling multi-link mechanisms has been developed for the TRASYS (Thermal Radiation Analyzer System) program. This capability, which has been implemented as a library software routine, allows a mechanism's configuration to be automatically updated during the calculation of either thermal radiation gray-body shape factors or external heat fluxes. This allows for accurate modeling and analysis of Spacecraft mechanisms including Antenna Pointing Systems, Solar Arrays, or Robot Arms such as those contemplated for use on the Space Shuttle or Space Station Freedom.