Modular antenna

Through modular design and positioning and locking mechanisms, the complex and cumbersome assembly of large satellite antennas is solved, and the rapid and stable assembly and maintenance of antenna modules is achieved, and the efficiency and accuracy of on-orbit assembly are improved.

CN120165217BActive Publication Date: 2025-07-25齐鲁空天信息研究院
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202510641824.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-05-19
Publication Date
2025-07-25
Estimated Expiration
2045-05-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The in-orbit assembly structure of large satellite antennas in the prior art is complex, the assembly process is cumbersome, and the accuracy cannot be adjusted after assembly is completed. The single antenna module cannot be replaced and maintained after being damaged, which limits the efficiency and cost of in-orbit assembly and maintenance.

Method used

It adopts a modular design, including trusses and multiple antenna modules. It uses the plug-in and mating of the positioning male head and the positioning channel, and the locking male head and the locking channel lock buckle, combining the adjustment mechanism and elastic support to achieve rapid positioning and locking of the antenna module.

Benefits of technology

It realizes rapid positioning and locking of antenna modules, simplifies the assembly process, improves on-rail assembly efficiency, supports replacement and maintenance of antenna modules, and improves assembly accuracy and stability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to the technical field of large satellite antennas, and relates to a modular antenna, comprising: a truss and a plurality of antenna modules; the truss includes a truss body and a plurality of antenna mounting units, the antenna mounting unit includes a positioning mechanism and a locking mechanism, the positioning mechanism includes a positioning base, a positioning channel is formed in the positioning base, the locking mechanism includes a locking base and a locking component, a locking channel is formed in the locking base, and the locking component is arranged in the locking base; the antenna module includes an antenna body, a positioning male head and a locking male head, and the positioning male head and the locking male head are both arranged on the antenna body; in the working state, a plurality of antenna modules are arranged on the truss body through corresponding antenna mounting units, the positioning male head is inserted and matched with the corresponding positioning channel, and the locking male head is located in the corresponding locking channel and is locked and matched with the locking component. The modular antenna provided by the present invention solves the defects that the antenna structure for on-orbit assembly in the prior art is complex and the assembly process is cumbersome.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of large satellite antennas, and particularly to a modular antenna. Background Art

[0002] In space engineering, large satellite antennas are widely used. Due to the limitations of the volume and load-bearing capacity of launch vehicles such as rockets, large antennas cannot be launched completely at one time, so they need to be assembled in orbit. And the assembled antennas need to be maintained regularly during use to extend their service life.

[0003] In the prior art, the antennas assembled in orbit have a complex structure, the assembly process is cumbersome, after assembly, the assembly accuracy cannot be adjusted, and after a single module of the antenna is damaged, it cannot be replaced and maintained, which limits the efficiency and cost of in-orbit assembly and maintenance of the antenna. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides a modular antenna to solve the defects that the antennas assembled in orbit in the prior art have a complex structure and a cumbersome assembly process.

[0005] The present invention provides a modular antenna, including: a truss and a plurality of antenna modules.

[0006] The truss includes a truss body and a plurality of antenna installation units. The antenna installation unit includes a positioning mechanism and a locking mechanism. The positioning mechanism includes a positioning base, a positioning channel is formed in the positioning base. The locking mechanism includes a locking base and a locking component. A locking channel is formed in the locking base, and the locking component is arranged in the locking base.

[0007] The antenna modules correspond to the antenna installation units one by one. The antenna module includes an antenna body, a positioning male head and a locking male head. The positioning male head and the locking male head are both arranged on the antenna body.

[0008] In the working state, a plurality of the antenna modules are arranged on the truss body through the corresponding antenna installation units. The positioning male head is inserted and matched with the corresponding positioning channel, and the locking male head is located in the corresponding locking channel and is locked and matched with the locking component.

[0009] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, a plurality of the antenna installation units are arranged adjacent to each other along the X direction on the truss body. In the working state, a plurality of the antenna modules are arranged adjacent to each other along the X direction on the truss body, and the adjacent side walls of the adjacent antenna bodies are attached to each other.

[0010] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, the antenna mounting unit includes two of the positioning mechanisms and two of the locking mechanisms, wherein one of the positioning mechanisms and the locking mechanism are spaced apart and provided on the first side of the truss body, and the other positioning mechanism and the locking mechanism are spaced apart and provided on the second side of the truss body opposite thereto.

[0011] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, the antenna mounting unit further includes an adjusting mechanism, the adjusting mechanism includes a threaded adjusting member, the threaded adjusting member is in threaded cooperation with the truss body along the Z direction, and in the working state, the ends of the threaded adjusting member abut against the bottom of the antenna body.

[0012] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, the adjusting mechanism further includes an elastic support member, the elastic support member is provided along the Z direction on the truss body, and in the working state, the ends of the elastic support member abut against the bottom of the antenna body.

[0013] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, the locking mechanism includes a plurality of the locking components, and the plurality of locking components are circumferentially spaced apart and provided within the locking base.

[0014] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, the locking component includes a locking member and an elastic reset member, the locking member is in radial sliding cooperation with the locking base, the elastic reset member is provided radially in the locking base, one end of the elastic reset member is connected to the locking base, and the other end of the elastic reset member is connected to the locking member; the locking member includes a locking portion, and a locking groove is provided circumferentially on the outer wall of the locking male head. In the working state, the locking portion is located within the locking groove to axially limit the locking male head.

[0015] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, a first locking guiding inclined surface is formed inside the locking portion, and a second locking guiding inclined surface is formed circumferentially at the end of the locking male head, so as to drive the locking member to move in the radially outward direction when the second locking guiding inclined surface abuts against the first locking guiding inclined surface.

[0016] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, the locking member further includes an unlocking portion, the unlocking portion is connected to the locking portion, a first unlocking guiding inclined surface is provided inside the unlocking portion, and an unlocking channel is further formed inside the locking base; the unlocking portion is located within the unlocking channel; the locking mechanism further includes an unlocking member, and a second unlocking guiding inclined surface is provided circumferentially at the end of the unlocking member, so as to drive the locking member to move in the radially outward direction when the second unlocking guiding inclined surface abuts against the first unlocking guiding inclined surface.

[0017] According to the modular antenna provided by the present invention, the locking base includes a detachably connected locking base body, a locking base cover, an adjustment gasket, a adapter and an end cover, the locking base body, the locking base cover, the adjustment gasket and the adapter are coaxially arranged in sequence, the end cover is connected to both the locking base body and the locking base cover, and one end of the elastic reset member is connected to the end cover.

[0018] The modular antenna provided by the present invention, when assembled on-track, first aligns the positioning male head on the antenna module with the positioning mechanism on the corresponding antenna installation unit, so that the positioning male head on the antenna module is plugged into the positioning channel on the positioning base, and at the same time, aligns the locking male head on the antenna module with the locking mechanism on the corresponding antenna installation unit, inserts the locking male head on the antenna module into the locking channel on the locking base, and makes the locking male head lock with the locking assembly. It has a simple structure and is easy to assemble, and can realize rapid positioning and locking of the antenna module, solving the defects of the existing antenna assembled on-track, which has a complex structure and a cumbersome assembly process.

[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description and in part will be obvious from the following description, or will be learned through practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present invention or the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying creative work.

[0021] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the modular antenna provided by an embodiment of the present invention in a working state (when assembly is completed).

[0022] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of a truss in a modular antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of an antenna module in a modular antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of assembling an antenna module in a modular antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of a positioning mechanism in a modular antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 6It is a schematic diagram of the positioning base of the positioning mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the positioning male head in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 10 It is a schematic diagram of the locking piece in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram of the locking base body of the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 12 It is a schematic diagram of the locking base cover of the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 13 It is a schematic diagram of the adapter of the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 14 It is a schematic diagram of the end cover of the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 15 It is a schematic diagram of the locking male head in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 16 It is one of the schematic diagrams when the locking male head and the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention are locked.

[0037] Figure 17 It is another schematic diagram when the locking male head and the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention are locked.

[0038] Figure 18 It is yet another schematic diagram when the locking male head and the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention are locked.

[0039] Figure 19 It is a schematic diagram when the locking male head and the locking mechanism in the modular antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention are unlocked.

[0040] Reference numerals:

[0041] 100, Truss; 110, Truss body; 120, Antenna mounting unit; 121, Positioning mechanism; 1211, Positioning base; 122, Locking mechanism; 1221, Locking base; 12211, Locking base body; 12212, Locking base cover; 12213, Adjusting gasket; 12214, Adapter; 12215, End cover; 1222, Locking assembly; 12221, Locking member; 12222, Elastic reset member; 123, Adjusting mechanism; 1231, Thread adjusting member; 1232, Elastic support member; 200, Antenna module; 210, Antenna body; 220, Positioning male head; 230, Locking male head; 231, Locking groove. Detailed implementation manners

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the present invention. Apparently, the described embodiments are some, but not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without making creative efforts based on the embodiments in the present invention belong to the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0043] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation to the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0044] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0045] In the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified or limited, the first feature being "on" or "under" the second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are indirectly in contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "over" and "on top of" the second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or merely indicates that the horizontal height of the first feature is higher than that of the second feature. The first feature being "under", "beneath" and "underneath" the second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or merely indicates that the horizontal height of the first feature is less than that of the second feature.

[0046] In the description of this specification, the description referring to terms such as "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples", etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described can be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0047] The following combines Figures 1 to 19 to describe the modular antenna provided by the present invention.

[0048] It should be noted that in the embodiments of the present invention, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction specifically refer to Figure 1 the directions indicated by the arrows in the coordinate system shown in

[0049] Referring to Figures 1 to 4 as shown, the modular antenna provided by the embodiments of the present invention includes: a truss 100 and a plurality of antenna modules 200.

[0050] The truss 100 includes a truss body 110 and a plurality of antenna mounting units 120. The antenna mounting unit 120 includes a positioning mechanism 121 and a locking mechanism 122. The positioning mechanism 121 includes a positioning base 1211, and a positioning channel is formed in the positioning base 1211. The locking mechanism 122 includes a locking base 1221 and a locking component 1222. A locking channel is formed in the locking base 1221, and the locking component 1222 is disposed in the locking base 1221.

[0051] The antenna modules 200 correspond to the antenna mounting units 120 one by one. The antenna module 200 includes an antenna body 210, a positioning male head 220, and a locking male head 230. The positioning male head 220 and the locking male head 230 are both disposed on the antenna body 210.

[0052] In the working state, multiple antenna modules 200 are arranged on the truss body 110 through corresponding antenna mounting units 120. The positioning male head 220 is inserted and matched with the corresponding positioning channel, and the locking male head 230 is located in the corresponding locking channel and is locked and matched with the locking assembly 1222.

[0053] It should be noted that the "working state" in the embodiments of the present invention specifically refers to the state when the antenna module 200 is assembled on the truss 100.

[0054] See Figure 4 As shown, for the modular antenna provided by the present invention, during on-orbit assembly, first align the positioning male head 220 on the antenna module 200 with the positioning mechanism 121 on the corresponding antenna mounting unit 120, so that the positioning male head 220 on the antenna module 200 is inserted and matched with the positioning channel on the positioning base 1211. At the same time, align the locking male head 230 on the antenna module 200 with the locking mechanism 122 on the corresponding antenna mounting unit 120, insert the locking male head 230 on the antenna module 200 into the locking channel on the locking base 1221, and make the locking male head 230 be locked and matched with the locking assembly 1222. Its structure is simple and the assembly is convenient, which can realize the rapid positioning and locking of the antenna module 200, and solves the defects that the existing on-orbit assembled antenna has a complex structure and a cumbersome assembly process.

[0055] Specifically, the modular antenna includes a truss 100 and antenna modules 200. Among them, the truss 100 is used to fix multiple antenna modules 200 in a set arrangement. A plurality of antenna mounting units 120 are provided on the truss 100, and each antenna module 200 is connected to the corresponding antenna mounting unit 120 through a positioning and locking mechanism to realize the stable assembly of each module. The antenna module 200 is a functional module of the modular antenna, which is used to realize the reception and transmission of wireless signals. Each antenna module 200 includes an antenna body 210, a positioning male head 220 and a locking male head 230, and can be quickly and stably installed on the truss 100 by cooperating with the positioning and locking mechanisms 122 of the antenna mounting unit 120 on the truss 100.

[0056] On the truss body 110, the number and arrangement of the antenna mounting units 120 can be set according to actual needs. For example, the antenna mounting units 120 can be arranged horizontally, obliquely or in an array, etc., so that the assembled modular antenna can adapt to different coverage ranges and signal requirements. The number of antenna units can be adjusted according to the size of the communication range, the frequency and gain requirements of the antenna, and the requirements of the working environment. The present invention does not limit this.

[0057] In each antenna mounting unit 120, the number of the positioning mechanism 121 and the locking mechanism 122 is at least one, which can be set according to actual requirements. For example, in application scenarios that require high precision (such as satellite communication, radar systems, etc.), a combination of multiple positioning mechanisms 121 and multiple locking mechanisms 122 can be adopted, which are respectively responsible for fine adjustment and strong fixation to ensure the stability and precise docking of the antenna module 200. In some occasions with simple structures or lower load requirements, a single positioning mechanism 121 and locking mechanism are sufficient to meet the requirements and ensure the basic functions and stability of the antenna.

[0058] When the male positioning head 220 cooperates with the corresponding positioning mechanism 121, the male positioning head 220 can be directly inserted into the positioning channel formed within the positioning base 1211. This insertion method ensures that the antenna module 200 can be quickly and accurately positioned during the assembly process through the precise cooperation between the male positioning head 220 and the positioning base 1211, and limits and fixes the antenna module 200 in the X and Y directions. When the male locking head 230 cooperates with the corresponding locking mechanism 122, the male locking head 230 is inserted into the locking channel formed within the locking base 1221, enabling the male locking head 230 to be locked and cooperate with the locking component 1222 within the locking channel, which can limit and fix the antenna module 200 in the Z direction. That is, under the combined action of the positioning mechanism 121 and the locking mechanism 122, the antenna module 200 can be quickly and simply assembled onto the truss 100, and after the assembly is completed, it can achieve the function of limiting and fixing in the X, Y, and Z directions, with strong stability.

[0059] See Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the positioning mechanism 121 includes a positioning base 1211. A positioning channel is provided within the positioning base 1211, and a male positioning head 220 that cooperates with the positioning channel is provided on the antenna body 210. The positioning base 1211 can adopt various forms in the prior art. For example, the positioning base 1211 can be directly machined on the truss body 110, and the positioning channel can be machined on the positioning base 1211, so that the positioning base 1211 is integrally provided with the truss body 110; alternatively, the positioning base 1211 can be used as an independent component and fixed to the truss body 110 through threaded fixing members (such as screws). The male positioning head 220 can also adopt various forms known in the prior art, such as a cylindrical pin, a polygonal pin, etc.

[0060] As an example, in this embodiment, the male positioning head 220 is a cylindrical pin, and a tapered guiding portion is provided at its end. The positioning base 1211 is an independent component and is fixed to the truss body 110 through threaded fixing members. The positioning channel is provided along the axial direction of the positioning base 1211. Similarly, a tapered surface is provided at the entrance end of the positioning channel to reduce the docking difficulty between the male positioning head 220 and the positioning channel.

[0061] To prevent the positioning male head 220 from exceeding the limit position during assembly, a limiting plate is provided at the tail end of the positioning male head 220 for abutting against the end face of the positioning base 1211 to achieve limiting.

[0062] See Figures 8 to 15 As shown, the locking mechanism 122 includes a locking base 1221 and a locking component 1222. A locking channel is formed in the locking base 1221. The locking component 1222 is disposed in the locking base 1221. A locking male head 230 that matches the locking channel and can be locked and cooperated with the locking component 1222 is provided on the antenna body 210. Similarly, the locking base 1221 can adopt various forms in the prior art. For example, the locking base 1221 is directly machined on the truss body 110, and the locking channel is machined on the locking base 1221, so that the locking base 1221 is integrally provided with the truss body 110; the locking base 1221 can also be used as an independent component and fixed to the truss body 110 through threaded fixing members (such as screws). The locking component 1222 and the locking male head 230 can also adopt various forms in the prior art, such as a spring locking component, a snap-type locking component, etc. Among them, the spring locking component realizes automatic locking by compressing the spring. When the locking male head 230 is inserted, the locking member 12221 drives the spring to be compressed. When the male head is completely inserted, the spring returns to its original state and presses the locking member 12221 to lock the locking male head 230. The snap-type locking component utilizes the snap or slot structure between the locking male head 230 and the locking channel to automatically lock when inserted, forming a firm connection.

[0063] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of antenna mounting units 120 are adjacent to each other along the X direction on the truss body 110. In the working state, a plurality of antenna modules 200 are adjacent to each other along the X direction on the truss body 110, and the adjacent side walls of the adjacent antenna bodies 210 are attached to each other.

[0064] By arranging a plurality of antenna modules 200 adjacent to each other on the truss body 110 and attaching the adjacent side walls of the adjacent antenna bodies 210 to each other, the space utilization rate can be optimized, the overall volume of the device can be reduced, and each antenna module 200 can be mutually limited, improving the stability of the modular antenna.

[0065] See Figures 1 to 4 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the antenna mounting unit 120 includes two positioning mechanisms 121 and two locking mechanisms 122. One positioning mechanism 121 and one locking mechanism 122 are spaced apart on the first side of the truss body 110, and the other positioning mechanism 121 and the other locking mechanism 122 are spaced apart on the opposite second side of the truss body 110.

[0066] By separately arranging two positioning mechanisms 121 and two locking mechanisms 122 of the antenna mounting unit 120 at the first side and the second side of the truss body 110 respectively, the stability of the fixed antenna module 200 can be effectively improved.

[0067] Specifically, the two positioning mechanisms 121 and the two locking mechanisms 122 are arranged in a rectangular array, and both the two positioning mechanisms 121 and the two locking mechanisms 122 are located on the diagonal line, enabling the antenna module 200 to achieve a more uniform force distribution.

[0068] Specifically, after the antenna module 200 is fixed to the truss body 110, the two positioning mechanisms 121 arranged along the diagonal line can respectively limit and fix the two sides of the antenna module 200 in the X direction and the Y direction. At the same time, the two locking mechanisms 122 arranged along the diagonal line can respectively limit and fix the two sides of the antenna module 200 in the Z direction. The two positioning mechanisms 121 and the two locking mechanisms 122 avoid the problem of local force concentration through the diagonal layout, and significantly improve the stability of the fixed antenna module 200.

[0069] See Figure 8 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the antenna mounting unit 120 further includes an adjusting mechanism 123. The adjusting mechanism 123 includes a threaded adjusting member 1231. The threaded adjusting member 1231 is in threaded cooperation with the truss body 110 along the Z direction. In the working state, the ends of the threaded adjusting member 1231 abut against the bottom of the antenna body 210.

[0070] By providing the adjusting mechanism 123, the position of each antenna module 200 in the Z direction after assembly can be finely adjusted, enabling each antenna module 200 to maintain a set flatness, achieving precise control of the positions of the individual antenna modules 200, and avoiding signal unevenness or system performance degradation caused by height differences between modules. Solve the problem of poor flatness of each antenna module 200 due to precision reasons when the locking male head 230 cooperates with the locking mechanism 122.

[0071] Specifically, during adjustment, by rotating the threaded adjusting member 1231 to change the position of the end of the threaded adjusting member 1231, the height of the corresponding antenna module 200 in the Z direction can be finely adjusted.

[0072] See Figure 8 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the adjusting mechanism 123 further includes an elastic support member 1232. The elastic support member 1232 is arranged along the Z direction on the truss body 110. In the working state, the ends of the elastic support member 1232 abut against the bottom of the antenna body 210.

[0073] By setting the elastic support member 1232, additional elastic support can be provided to apply a pressing force to the antenna module 200, further enhancing the stability of the antenna module 200 when assembled to the truss body 110.

[0074] Preferably, the elastic support member 1232 is a spring. Of course, in some embodiments, elastic support members 1232 such as elastic pads can also be used, and there is no limitation thereto.

[0075] See Figures 8 to 15 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the locking mechanism 122 includes a plurality of locking components 1222, and the plurality of locking components 1222 are circumferentially spaced and arranged in the locking base 1221.

[0076] By circumferentially spacing the plurality of locking components 1222 in the locking base 1221, the locking mechanism 122 can evenly distribute the fixing force applied to the antenna module 200. After the antenna module 200 is installed, the locking male head 230 can cooperate with the plurality of locking components 1222 to achieve firm locking, preventing uneven fixing or deformation of the antenna module 200 due to excessive force on any side.

[0077] Specifically, the plurality of locking components 1222 can provide a more uniform and stable locking effect through coordinated work, making the connection between the antenna module 200 and the truss body 110 more stable, effectively reducing the problem of uneven local force during the locking process, and avoiding the risk of loosening or displacement that may be caused by a single locking point.

[0078] As an example, the locking mechanism 122 in this embodiment includes three locking components 1222, and the three locking components 1222 are evenly and circumferentially spaced and arranged in the locking base 1221. After the locking male head 230 is inserted into the locking channel, it can be locked and cooperated with the three locking components 1222 at the same time to achieve the firm locking of the antenna module 200.

[0079] See Figures 8 to 15 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the locking component 1222 includes a locking member 12221 and an elastic reset member 12222. The locking member 12221 is slidably engaged with the locking base 1221 in the radial direction. The elastic reset member 12222 is arranged in the locking base 1221 in the radial direction. One end of the elastic reset member 12222 is connected to the locking base 1221, and the other end of the elastic reset member 12222 is connected to the locking member 12221. The locking member 12221 includes a locking portion, and a locking groove 231 is provided on the outer wall of the locking male head 230 in the circumferential direction. In the working state, the locking portion is located in the locking groove 231 to axially limit the locking male head 230.

[0080] By setting the locking component 1222 to include a locking member 12221 and an elastic reset member 12222, automatic locking can be achieved when the male locking head 230 is inserted into the locking channel. The mechanism is simple and the assembly is convenient.

[0081] Preferably, in this embodiment, the elastic reset member 12222 is a reset spring. Of course, in some embodiments, the elastic reset member 12222 can also be an elastic reset pad or the like, which is not limited herein.

[0082] Similarly, to prevent the male locking head 230 from exceeding the limit position during assembly, a limiting plate is provided at the tail end of the male locking head 230 for abutting against the end face of the locking base 1221 to achieve limiting.

[0083] See Figures 16 to 18 As shown, specifically, when the male locking head 230 is inserted into the locking channel, its end applies a radial force to the locking portion of the locking member 12221, causing it to move in the radially outward direction and applying a pressing force to the elastic reset member 12222. When the male locking head 230 continues to move downward and the locking groove 231 reaches the position of the locking portion, under the action of the elastic reset member 12222, the locking portion of the locking member 12221 enters the locking groove 231 to achieve the cooperation between the male locking head 230 and the locking component 1222.

[0084] See Figure 10 and Figure 15 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, a first locking guiding inclined surface is formed on the inner side of the locking portion, and a second locking guiding inclined surface is formed circumferentially on the end of the male locking head 230 to drive the locking member 12221 to move in the radially outward direction when the second locking guiding inclined surface abuts against the first locking guiding inclined surface.

[0085] By providing a first locking guiding inclined surface on the inner side of the locking portion and a second locking guiding inclined surface circumferentially on the end of the male locking head 230, when the male locking head 230 is inserted, the first locking guiding inclined surface at its end can cooperate with the second locking guiding inclined surface to apply a radially outward force to the locking member 12221, pushing the locking member 12221 to move radially outward, so that the locking groove 231 on the male locking head 230 can smoothly cooperate with the locking portion.

[0086] See Figure 9 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the locking member 12221 further includes an unlocking portion, the unlocking portion is connected to the locking portion, a first unlocking guiding inclined surface is provided on the inner side of the unlocking portion, and an unlocking channel is further formed in the locking base 1221; the locking mechanism 122 further includes an unlocking member, and a second unlocking guiding inclined surface is provided circumferentially at the end of the unlocking member to drive the locking member 12221 to move in the radially outward direction when the second unlocking guiding inclined surface abuts against the first unlocking guiding inclined surface.

[0087] By providing an unlocking portion and an unlocking member, and configuring corresponding first and second unlocking guiding inclined surfaces, the locking mechanism 122 can achieve a simple unlocking operation when needed. When the antenna module 200 malfunctions and needs to be replaced or repaired, the unlocking member can unlock the locking male head 230 and the locking member 12221 to remove the antenna module 200 from the truss body 110.

[0088] Specifically, referring to Figure 19 As shown, during unlocking, the unlocking member extends into the locking base 1221 through the unlocking channel. After reaching a certain position, the second unlocking guiding inclined surface at the end of the unlocking member cooperates with the first unlocking guiding inclined surface inside the unlocking portion, applying a radially outward force to the unlocking member, thereby causing the locking portion to disengage from the locking groove 231 and unlocking.

[0089] Referring to Figures 8 to 15 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the locking base 1221 includes a detachably connected locking base body 12211, a locking base cover 12212, an adjusting gasket 12213, an adapter 12214, and an end cap 12215. The locking base body 12211, the locking base cover 12212, the adjusting gasket 12213, and the adapter 12214 are coaxially arranged in sequence, and the end cap 12215 is connected to both the locking base body 12211 and the locking base cover 12212. One end of the elastic reset member 12222 is connected to the end cap 12215.

[0090] By configuring the locking base 1221 to include a locking base body 12211, a locking base cover 12212, an adjusting gasket 12213, an adapter 12214, and an end cap 12215 that are detachably connected, the adjustability, modular design, and easy maintenance functions of the locking mechanism 122 can be achieved.

[0091] Specifically, the locking base body 12211, the locking base cover 12212, the adjusting gasket 12213, and the adapter 12214 are coaxially arranged in sequence, providing a precisely docking structure to ensure that all parts can be closely fitted during installation, avoiding loosening or failure. The adjusting gasket 12213 can adjust the distance between the adapter 12214 and the locking base cover 12212 to eliminate the problem that the locking male head 230 and the locking member 12221 cannot be effectively locked and fitted due to machining errors. For example, when there is a gap at the mating portion between the locking male head 230 and the locking member 12221, resulting in unstable locking of the antenna module 200 and easy shaking, a thicker adjusting gasket 12213 can be used at this time.

[0092] The assembly and disassembly processes of the modular antenna provided by the present invention will be described below. Referring to Figures 1 to 4and Figures 16 to 19 as shown

[0093] During the assembly process of the antenna module 200, an on-orbit robot is used to operate the antenna module 200 close to the truss 100, so that the positioning male head 220 and the locking male head 230 at the bottom of the antenna module 200 are respectively aligned with the positioning mechanism 121 and the locking mechanism 122 on the corresponding antenna mounting unit 120.

[0094] The antenna module 200 is driven to move along the Z direction towards the truss 100. After reaching the set position, the second locking guiding slope at the end of the locking male head 230 cooperates with the first locking guiding slope inside the locking part, applying a radially outward force to the locking piece 12221, pushing the locking piece 12221 to move radially outward and compressing the return spring, so that the locking groove 231 on the locking male head 230 cooperates with the locking part. Thus, the preliminary fixation of the antenna module 200 is completed.

[0095] After installing each antenna module 200 in sequence, the flatness of each antenna module 200 is detected. When the flatness of the antenna module 200 does not meet the set requirements, it can be adjusted through the threaded adjusting part 1231 until the set requirements are met.

[0096] When the antenna module 200 fails and needs to be repaired or replaced, the corresponding antenna module 200 needs to be separated from the truss 100. The separation process is as follows: The on-orbit robot operates the unlocking piece to enter the locking base 1221 through the unlocking channel. After reaching a certain position, the second unlocking guiding slope at the end of the unlocking piece cooperates with the first unlocking guiding slope inside the unlocking part, applying a radially outward force to the unlocking piece, so that the locking part is disengaged from the locking groove 231, releasing the lock. At this time, the faulty antenna module 200 can move away from the truss 100 under the operation of the on-orbit robot until the two are separated.

[0097] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that: they can still modify the technical solutions recorded in the foregoing embodiments, or perform equivalent replacements for some of the technical features; and these modifications or replacements do not make the essence of the corresponding technical solutions deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular antenna, characterized in that, Comprising: A truss, the truss includes a truss body and a plurality of antenna mounting units, the antenna mounting unit includes a positioning mechanism and a locking mechanism, the positioning mechanism includes a positioning base, a positioning channel is formed in the positioning base, the locking mechanism includes a locking base and a locking component, a locking channel is formed in the locking base, and the locking component is arranged in the locking base; A plurality of antenna modules, the antenna modules correspond to the antenna mounting units one by one, the antenna module includes an antenna body, a positioning male head and a locking male head, and the positioning male head and the locking male head are both arranged on the antenna body; In the working state, a plurality of the antenna modules are arranged on the truss body through the corresponding antenna mounting units, the positioning male head is inserted and matched with the corresponding positioning channel, and the locking male head is located in the corresponding locking channel and is locked and matched with the locking component; The locking component includes a locking piece and an elastic reset piece, the locking piece is slidably matched with the locking base in the radial direction, the elastic reset piece is arranged in the locking base in the radial direction, one end of the elastic reset piece is connected to the locking base, and the other end of the elastic reset piece is connected to the locking piece; The locking piece includes a locking portion, a locking groove is formed in the outer wall of the locking male head along the circumferential direction, and in the working state, the locking portion is located in the locking groove to axially limit the locking male head; A first locking guiding inclined surface is formed on the inner side of the locking portion, and a second locking guiding inclined surface is formed on the end portion of the locking male head along the circumferential direction, so as to drive the locking piece to move in the radially outward direction when the second locking guiding inclined surface abuts against the first locking guiding inclined surface; The locking piece further includes an unlocking portion, the unlocking portion is connected to the locking portion, a first unlocking guiding inclined surface is arranged on the inner side of the unlocking portion, and an unlocking channel is further formed in the locking base, and the unlocking portion is located in the unlocking channel; The locking mechanism further includes an unlocking piece, and a second unlocking guiding inclined surface is formed on the end portion of the unlocking piece along the circumferential direction, so as to drive the locking piece to move in the radially outward direction when the second unlocking guiding inclined surface abuts against the first unlocking guiding inclined surface.

2. The modular antenna according to claim 1, wherein A plurality of the antenna mounting units are arranged adjacent to each other on the truss body along the X direction. In the working state, a plurality of the antenna modules are arranged adjacent to each other on the truss body along the X direction, and the adjacent side walls of the adjacent antenna bodies are attached.

3. The modular antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that The antenna mounting unit includes two of the positioning mechanisms and two of the locking mechanisms. One of the positioning mechanisms and the locking mechanism are spaced apart and arranged on the first side of the truss body, and the other positioning mechanism and the locking mechanism are spaced apart and arranged on the second side of the truss body opposite thereto.

4. The modular antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The antenna mounting unit further includes an adjusting mechanism, the adjusting mechanism includes a threaded adjusting member, the threaded adjusting member is threadedly matched with the truss body along the Z direction, and in the working state, the end portions of the threaded adjusting member abut against the bottom of the antenna body.

5. The modular antenna according to claim 4, characterized in that, The adjusting mechanism further includes an elastic support member, the elastic support member is arranged on the truss body along the Z direction, and in the working state, the end portions of the elastic support member abut against the bottom of the antenna body.

6. The modular antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes a plurality of the locking components, and the plurality of the locking components are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction within the locking base.

7. The modular antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The locking base includes a locking base body, a locking base cover, an adjusting gasket, an adapter, and an end cover that are detachably connected. The locking base body, the locking base cover, the adjusting gasket, and the adapter are coaxially arranged in sequence. The end cover is connected to both the locking base body and the locking base cover, and one end of the elastic reset member is connected to the end cover.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    CN109037898A

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