Deployable space structure

Abstract

A deployable structure is shown and described to define a reduced volume storage space and permit efficient and unique deployment to an expanded configuration. The deployable structure permits unique curved surface structures while maintaining a reduced storage volume and may permit extreme placements of secondary stages for further reflection and / or collection.

Description

VIAEFS Docket Number: L002-0036US1-PRGU.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICEDeployable Space StructureAlexander Lee JonesPRIORITY

[0001] The instant application claims priority to United States provisional application number 63 / 745,675, filed January 15, 2025, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] Space structures pose a unique problem associated with deployment of the structure in a remote location. Most space structures are deployed in space by first being packed into a small package, put on a rocket, sent to a desired orbit of Earth, and then deployed without hands on intervention. Space and weight are driving factors as the capacity of a payload to move structures to space is very limited and costly. Accordingly, most deployable space structures are deployable from a stowed configuration for compact storage to a deployed configuration for use at its full size, usually larger than the stowed configuration.

[0003] Creating deployment arrangements are difficult that permit the desirable reduced volume storage and do not require substantial actuation to autonomously deploy. Designs also become more complex for reflectors and / or collectors in which the surfaces may be curved to assist in efficient focus and collection of energy. For example, a traditional solution is to fold material in a back-and-forth pleated pattern to collapse a surface. However, such a configuration is not viable for a curved surface as the curved surface will curve toward or away from each other creating points of high stress and substantial unused volume that is wasted and costly.SUMMARY

[0004] A deployable structure is shown and described to define a reduced volume storage space and permit efficient and unique deployment to an expanded configuration of curvedDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGsurfaces. Although the instant disclosure has substantial benefits for storage of curved surfaces, the disclosure is not so limited but may be used with any surface structure, including flat surfaces.

[0005] The deployable structure may be used as reflectors, collectors, satellites, etc. The defined surface may therefore be reflective. The deployable structure may also include a primary stage and / or secondary stage. The primary and / or second stage may be additional reflectors and / or collectors depending on the desired arrangement of the system.

[0006] A deployable structure may include a plurality of panels coupled together by an expandable frame to create one or more subassembly panels. The one or more subassembly panels may be coupled together to define a surface.

[0007] The subassembly panel may be configured in a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The collapsed configuration may permit the plurality of panels to be positioned on top of each other such that a front a one panel is against a back of an adjacent panel in a nesting arrangement.

[0008] Subassembly panel may comprise the plurality of panels coupled together by the expandable frame. The expandable frame may be configured to circumferentially extend to create an elongated curved support structure. As the expandable frame elongates, the expandable frame is configured to simultaneously rotate the plurality of panels coupled thereto.

[0009] A deployable structure is shown and described herein having a plurality of subassemblies, each subassembly including: a plurality of panels; an expandable frame coupling the plurality of panels; a hub. The deployable structure also having a support assembly to couple the hub to the plurality of subassemblies.

[0010] Each of the plurality of panels of the deployable structure may comprises a reflective surface.

[0011] The deployable structure may have a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the collapsed configuration, the plurality of panels within a subassembly areDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGpositioned approximately parallel. Tn the deployed configuration, the plurality of panels of all of the plurality of subassemblies together define a curved surface structure.

[0012] The plurality of subassemblies are configured such that the plurality of panels translate and rotate relative to each other during deployment from the collapsed configuration to the deployed configuration.

[0013] The expandable frame of each of the plurality of subassemblies comprises a plurality of pivotal linked pairs. Each one of the pivotal linked pairs couple to one panel of the plurality of panels. The plurality of pivotal linked pairs include a first link pivotally coupled to a second link. Each of the plurality of pivotally linked pairs are coupled to an adjacent pivotally linked pair.

[0014] A first link of a pivotally linked pair is pivotally coupled to a second link of an adjacent pivotally linked pair and a second link of the pivotally linked pair is pivotally coupled to the first link of the adjacent pivotally linked pair.

[0015] An axis of rotation of each of the pivotal connections of the expandable frame intersect each other.

[0016] The intersection of the axis of rotation of each of the pivotal connections of the expandable frame intersect along a central axis of the surface structure.

[0017] A first link of the pivotally linked pairs comprises a support component offset from a connection component. The connection component is configured to couple adjacent pivotally linked pairs and the support component is configured to couple to a panel.

[0018] The pivotally linked pairs comprise a limited configured to adjust a relative position of the panel to the connection component of the first link to a first position and statically retain the relative position of the panel to the connection component in the first position.

[0019] Each panel of the plurality of panels comprises a mated feature. A first mated feature of a panel is configured to mate with a corresponding second mated feature of an adjacent panel.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0020] The mated features of the first mated feature and the second mated feature are an indent / detent pair.

[0021] The mated features of the first mated feature and the second mated feature includes magnets.

[0022] The support structure comprise telescoping booms.

[0023] The support structure comprises a plurality of paired booms in which a first boom is translationally movable along the length of the second boom and the first boom is pivotally coupled to the second boom.DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the deployable space structure in a deployed configuration.

[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the deployable space structure in a stored configuration having a reduced volume as compared to the deployed configuration.

[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary partial view of the deployable space structure on one of the pluralities of sectional panel subassemblies and its corresponding support structure.

[0027] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary component view of one of the pluralities of sectional panel subassemblies with its corresponding expandable frame.

[0028] FIG.5 A illustrates an exemplary portion of one of the pluralities of sectional panel subassembly in a deployed configuration.

[0029] FIGS. 5B-5D illustrate exemplary portions of the panel and a portion of the expandable frame.

[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary blown-up view of a portion of the expandable frame of one of the plurality of sectional panel subassemblies.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates and exemplary component view of one of the panels of the plurality of panels used to create the sectional panel subassembly.

[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial view of mated terminal edges of adjacent panels of the plurality of panels.

[0033] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary side view of embodiments of the deployable space structure illustrating unique and extreme exemplary secondary collector locations that may be accommodated with exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial component view of the support structure for a sectional panel subassembly according to embodiments described herein.

[0035] FIGS. 11 A-10D illustrates different exemplary phases of deployment of the deployable space structure in the configuration of a collector according to embodiments described herein from a stored configuration to a deployed configuration. FIG. 11 A illustrates the exemplary deployable collector in a stowed configuration for storage. FIG. 1 IB illustrates the exemplary deployable collector in transition to a deployed configuration from the stowed configuration in which the sectional panel subassemblies are separated. FIG. 11C illustrates the exemplary deployable collector in transition to a deployed configuration from the stowed configuration in which the sectional panel subassemblies are partially expanded in which the expandable frame extend, and the plurality of panels rotate. FIG. 1 ID illustrates the exemplary deployable collector in the deployed configuration with the sectional panel subassemblies fully open and the plurality of panels aligned in a circumferential surface structure.DESCRIPTION

[0036] The following detailed description illustrates by way of example, not by way of limitation, the principles of the invention. This description will clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives and uses of the invention, including what is presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the invention. It should be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not limiting of the present invention nor are they necessarily drawn to scale.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0037] Packaging rigid curved surfaces is difficult. The curved surfaces create a lot of unusable space when positioned together. If the surfaces are nested, such that the surfaces fit together with parallel curvatures, then the structure becomes difficult to autonomously deploy as the surfaces may need to translate and / or rotate relative to each other. It is therefore desirable to create a deployment system that permits the reduced stored configuration in which curved surfaces are packaged in a parallel orientation and automatically repositions the curved surfaces to a deployed configuration in which the surfaces are adjacent to each other in a desired deployed configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, the deployment system may permit the curved surface to rotate and translate relative to each other for proper positioning in the stored and deployed configurations.

[0038] It is desirable to have curved surfaces for use as reflectors and / or collectors to improve the efficiency of the surface. More energy and / or signal can be focused to a desired point when the surface curvature can be improved and therefore a smaller surface is required. However, storing curved surfaces is very difficult. Many applications use accordion-type folding in which a front of a sectional fold is positioned against a back of an adjacent sectional fold. If the surfaces are curved then the surfaces do not align and a gap is created at the edges of the folded surface if the sections curve away from each other or a gap is created at the center of the folded surface if the sections curve toward each other. The collapsed structure results in substantial waisted space. The gaps between surfaces also permit substantial stresses to form in the panels as the contact points between adjacent panels are over smaller surface areas that can fatigue or break the surfaces in the stored configurations.

[0039] Building structures that are reliability deployable is very difficult. Any addition of actuators to assist in deployment adds to system complexity, weight, and other adverse factors. It is therefore desirable and beneficial to keep deployment structures simple, and if possible linked. Exemplary embodiments of the system structures described herein provide unique deployment configurations to permit a reduced stored configuration, coupled deployment to reduce actuators to deploy the system, provide more precise and / or controllable deployment, and any combination thereof.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0040] Exemplary embodiments of the deployable space structure permit the collapsed storage of a plurality of curved panels to be stored in alignment to reduce storage space and provide a more robust stored structure.

[0041] Exemplary embodiments of the deployable space structure described herein permit unique curved structures that may have different applications such as in solar collectors, signal collectors, solar reflectors, signal reflectors, antennas, etc.

[0042] Exemplary embodiments of the deployable space structures described herein permit unique positioning of primary and / or secondary stages to manipulate the reflection and / or collection of the sources reflected from the curved surfaces. Exemplary embodiments may therefore be used to permit off-axis positioning of a collector to permit more varied applications and use in unique situations.

[0043] Exemplary embodiments of the deployable space structure may be used to combine deployment movements of panels defining the exemplary curved surface to minimize actuation.

[0044] Although embodiments of the invention may be described and illustrated herein in terms of a solar collector, it should be understood that embodiments of this invention are not so limited. Instead, the disclosure may equally apply to reflectors, antennas, or other deployable space structure. The disclosure of the deployable structure and frame may be similar between the different applications. Instead, the collector and / or selection of the surface may be changed to define the application. Accordingly, exemplary embodiments described herein are for a deployable space structure that may be configured as an antenna, a collector, a concentrator, a reflector, or other deployable structure having a similar shape. Different applications may simply use different materials to create the respective curved surfaces described herein.

[0045] Exemplary embodiments described herein include a deployable structure configured to reduce the actuation mechanisms for deployment and / or in creating a smaller stored configuration

[0046] A deployable structure is shown and described to define a reduced volume storage space and permit efficient and unique deployment to an expanded configuration.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0047] The deployable structure according to embodiments described herein may be used as reflectors, collectors, satellites, etc. The defined surface may therefore be reflective. The deployable structure may also include a primary stage and / or secondary stage. The primary and / or second stage may be additional reflectors and / or collectors depending on the desired application of the system.

[0048] A deployable structure may include a plurality of panels coupled together by an expandable frame to create one or more subassembly panels. The one or more subassembly panels may be coupled together to define a surface structure.

[0049] The subassembly panel may be configured in a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The collapsed configuration may permit the plurality of panels to be positioned on top of each other such that a front a one panel is against a back of an adjacent panel. This configuration of collapsed panels may be used to permit the curvatures of the panel to align and reduce the volume of the storage configuration.

[0050] Subassembly panel(s) may comprise the plurality of panels coupled together by the expandable frame. The expandable frame may be configured to circumferentially extend to create an elongated curved support structure. As the expandable frame elongates, the expandable frame is configured to simultaneously rotate the plurality of panels coupled thereto while the panels translate relative to each other to position the panels from overlapping to side-by-side positions. The dual actuation of expanding and rotating the plurality of panels to a deployed configuration may reduce the overall system components to create a reduced payload.

[0051] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the deployable space structure 100 in a deployed configuration.

[0052] The exemplary deployable space structure 100 may include a plurality of panels 102. The plurality of panels may be coupled together to create subassembly panels 104. A plurality of subassembly panels 104 may define the surface structure.

[0053] Exemplary embodiments described herein result in a curved surface structure. The surface structure may comprise different materials and / or surface types depending on the purpose. Exemplary embodiments of the curved surface structure defines a reflector. TheDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGreflector may be an optical reflector, electrical reflector, magnetic reflector, electro-magnetic reflector, opto-electric reflector, or combinations thereof. In an optional configuration, the curved surface structure may comprise a reflective coating.

[0054] As illustrated, the curved surface structure may be curved in one or two dimensions. For example, the curved surface structure may define a circumferential structure having a radial component and a circumferential component. The curved surface structure may be curved about a radial axis and / or about a circumferential axis. In an optional embodiment, the curved surface structure may define part of a parabolic cylinder.

[0055] The deployable space structure 100 may include a hub 106 coupling the plurality of subassembly panels 104 into the curved surface structure. The hub 106 may support a second stage that may be a collector and / or another reflector. The second stage may be positioned at the focal point of the curved surface structure. The collector may receive the reflected rays from the curved surface structure. The other reflector may be configured to reflect the rays from the curved surface structure onto a third stage such as another collector (not shown).

[0056] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the deployable space structure in a stored configuration having a reduced volume as compared to the deployed configuration.

[0057] The stored configuration of the deployable space structure may include collapsed subassemblies of panels 104. The collapsed subassemblies of panels may be arranged so that the panels of the subassembly are aligned in a parallel configuration. A parallel configuration does not require the surfaces to be flat but may include parallel curves. A parallel curve may include curved surfaces that are displaced from each other by a generally constant offset in the direction of the curve’s normal. An exemplary configuration of a parallel curve includes curved panels in which the concavity of the curved panel is in the same direction, similar to nesting bowls.

[0058] The stored configuration of the deployable space structure 100 may be enclosed within a housing 208. The housing may define a modular deployable that may be configured to fit within a payload area. The housing may be configured to open and release the deployable space structure 100.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0059] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary partial view of the deployable space structure on one of the pluralities of sectional panel subassemblies and its corresponding support structure.

[0060] As seen in FIG. 3, the plurality of panels 102 of the subassembly of panels 104, in a deployed configuration, are positioned circumferentially adjacent to each other. The curvature of the panel therefore defines a curve of a portion of the curved surface structure. As illustrated, a first panel 102a is positioned circumferentially adjacent to a second panel 102 b to the next panel through the panel 102n in the deployed configuration. The nth panel is intended to designate any number of panels positioned adjacent to each other and coupled by the expandable frame to create a subassembly panel 104.

[0061] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary component view of one of the pluralities of sectional panel subassemblies 104 with its corresponding expandable frame 410 coupling the plurality of panels 102.

[0062] FIG.5 A illustrates an exemplary blown-up view of a portion of the expandable frame 410 of one of subassembly of the plurality of panels 104.

[0063] An exemplary expandable frame 410 comprises a first link 512 and a second link 514 coupled together through a joint 516. The coupling of the first link 512 to the second link 514 is pivotal about an axis of the joint 516. Thejoint 516 is positioned toward an interior portion of the first link 512 and the second link 514. Therefore, the terminal ends of the first link 512 may rotate toward and away from terminal ends of the second link 514 about thejoint 516.

[0064] As illustrated, a series of first links may be coupled to a series of second links at the pivot approximately at the midpoint of the first link and second link creating pivotable pairs of first links and second links. A plurality of pivotable pairs of first links and second links may be coupled together through the terminal ends of the first link of one pivotable pair to the second link of an adjacent pivotable pair and the terminal end of the second link of the one pivotable pair to a terminal end of the first link of the adjacent pivotable pair. A series of pivotal pairs of first link and second link can be coupled together to create the expandable frame.

[0065] The expandable frame 410 may have an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. The extended configuration may be when a first terminal end of a first link isDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGbrought toward and positioned adjacent to a first terminal end of a second link of a pivotal link pair made up of a first link 512 and a second link 514 and a central pivot joint 516.

[0066] The series of pivotal pairs within the expandable frame are positioned approximately end to end to define a generally curved-linear configuration. Is it understood that the mating of a first link to the second link of adjacent pivotal link pairs creates interferences to prevent the first link and second link from fully aligning lengthwise.

[0067] It is also contemplated that the links may be straight and / or curved. Therefore, the understanding of a elongated curved support when the expandable frame is in the extended configuration includes the step-wise curve created by angularly offset linear sections to approximate a curve.

[0068] Therefore, the approximation to curved-linear is understood to accommodate the deviations necessary for the attachment between adjacent links and / or the configuration of the links.

[0069] The collapsed configuration of the expandable frame may be when the first link and second link of pivotal link pairs are rotated about the pivot joint 516. The collapsed configuration may be when the first terminal end of the first link is brought toward and positioned adjacent to a second terminal end of the second link of the pivotal link pair. The first link and the second link of each of the pivotal link pairs may therefore be generally parallel to each other and aligned adjacent to each other.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of first links and plurality of second links are coupled together and positioned to operate similar to a scissor lift. However, scissor lifts operate for purely linear extension of the links to raise (extend) or lower (collapse) the lift.

[0071] Exemplary embodiments of the expandable frame 410 described herein are configured to result in a non-linear elongated structure. As used herein, a non-linear elongated structure comprises a curved structure and / or a step-wise curved structure in which portions of the structure are linear and curved or bent to approximate a curved structure.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0072] The expandable frame 410 described herein may result in the non-linear elongated structure by aligning the rotational axis of the pivotal connections between the plurality of first links to the plurality of second links.

[0073] The alignment of the rotational axis of each of the pivotal connection between a first link and a second link may be so that the rotational axis is along a radial axis. In an optional embodiment, the radial axis may be a radius of the expandable frame. Alternatively, the radial axis may be to a focal point or other defined point relative to the curved surface structure.

[0074] As described herein a pivotal pair of first and second links are pivotally joined toward the interior of the first link and the interior of the second link. The pivotal joint of the pivotal pair may be oriented along a radius of the expandable frame. A pivotal pair of a first and second links is coupled to adjacent pivotal pairs of adjacent first and adjacent second links to create a series of pivotal pairs. A first terminal end of a first link of the pivotal pair is coupled to a first terminal end of an adjacent second link of the adjacent pivotal pair and a second terminal end of the second link of the pivotal pair is coupled to the second terminal end of the adjacent first link of the adjacent pivotal pair. Terminal end described herein are near the ends of a link but may not be at the side end of the link. For example, a portion of the link may be necessary for structural integrity to support the link.

[0075] A series of adjacent pivotal pairs are coupled together to define the expandable frame. A series of expandable frames, in the expanded configuration, approximates a closed loop defining a center and having a radius. The pivotal joint of each of the pivotal pairs may define an axis that extends to the center. The pivotal joints between the terminal ends of the first link to the terminal end of the second link and between the terminal ends of the second link to the terminal end of the first link may similarly be rotational about an axis that extends through a center axis of the deployable structure.

[0076] As illustrated in FIG.5 A, each subassembly of a plurality of panels may include one or more actuators 518. The actuator(s) 518 may be used to move the first link relative to the second link and / or rotate the first link relative to the second link about the joint to expand or collapse the expandable frame.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0077] As seen in FIG.5A, the expandable frame 410 supports a plurality of panels 102. Each pivotal pair of a first link and a second link may be coupled to a panel of the plurality of panels.

[0078] As seen in FIG.5A, each first link 512 may include a connection part 512a and a support part 512b. The connection part 512a of the first link may be configured to couple the first link to the adjacent second links as described herein. The support part 512b may be configured to couple to a panel.

[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, the first link and the second link are elongated members coupled together around a central portion of the first link and the second link. In the deployed configuration, the first links and second links couple to adjacent second links and first links, respectively, to form generally a circumferential band, either a curved shape or piece-wise curved shape. Each of the first links are parallel and positionally rotated about the center axis of the portion of the expandable frame. Each of the second links are parallel and positionally rotated about the center axis of the portion of the expandable frame.

[0080] The first links and second links do not form a straight ring as the links deviate from a medium position to accommodate the attachment and overlap of the links at their terminal ends to adjacent links. Accordingly, a panel coupled along the first link would be rotated from a desired final position. Exemplary embodiments of the support part 512b of the first link orients the support part 512b relative to the connector part 512a so that the support part 512b may be configured to provide a frame along a terminal edge of a panel that is in a circumferential line with the support parts of adjacent first links to properly align the panels into a portion of the curved surface structure when fully deployed.

[0081] As illustrated, a first link 512 may include a connection part 512a and a support part 512b. The connection part 512a may be an elongated length that is fully straight or straight along at least one dimension. The connection part may comprise a pivotal connection proximate each terminal. The first pivotal connection on the connection part proximate a first terminal end of the connection part of a first link of a pivotal link pair coupled to a second link 514 of a first adjacent pivotal link pair and a second pivotal connection proximate of the connection part aDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGsecond terminal end of the connection part of a first link of a pivotal connection pair coupled to a second link 514 of a second adjacent pivotal link pair.

[0082] The first link of the pivotal link pair comprising a support part 512b. The support part configured to extend along and support at least a portion of a terminal edge of a panel coupled thereto. The support part may be an elongated length that is fully straight or straight along at least one dimension.

[0083] The elongated support part and the elongated connection part of the first link may be rigidly coupled together and the elongated length of the connection part may be rotationally offset from the elongated length of the support part. In a fully deployed configuration, the support part may be circumferentially aligned with adjacent support parts of adjacent linked pairs.

[0084] FIGS. 5B-5D illustrate exemplary portions of the panel with the first link including the connector part and support part according to an optional configuration that permits limited relative movement between the connector part and support part to accommodate build tolerances and permit the panels to come together in the deployed configuration.

[0085] Because adjacent panels may be configured to overlap at their edges and attach together, the alignment of adjacent panels may be desirable. Alignment of the panels may require precise machining between all of the component parts. The precision of the component parts and therefore the associated manufacturing costs can be reduced while still permitting the panels to come together in a desirable manner by permitting relative movement in the parts to permit variances in tolerance.

[0086] As seen in FIG. 5B, a panel 102 configured to align with an adjacent panel may be support and attached to the expandable frame through a support part 512b of the expandable frame. The support may then attach to the connector part 512a of the expandable frame.

[0087] The support part and the expandable frame may be rigidly positioned relative to each other so that in the deployed configuration and the connector part is in a fully deployed position, the panel is in a desirable position as part of the surface structure.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0088] The support part and the expandable frame may be positioned relative to each other and permit limited relative movement to accommodate variances in the component parts so that the panel may align in the deployed configuration despite machining tolerances that may misalign a panel relative to an adjacent panel.

[0089] As illustrated if FIG. 5C, the support part 512b may be pivotally connected to the connector part 512a at a connector 520. The connector may be a pivotal connection so that when the connector part 512a is fully deployed, the panel may still have limited rotation to permit the panels to seat within or join with an adjacent panel.

[0090] In order to limit the rotation of the panel relative to the connector part and / or the expandable frame when deployed, the connector part 512a may have a limiter 522 to contact the panel and / or the support part and limit further rotation of the panel in a given direction. Each side of the connector part may have a limiter so that limiter may limit rotation of the panel in one rotational direction and optionally two limiters may be used to limit both rotational directions.

[0091] In an optional configuration, the limiters may be adjustable so that the relative position of the panel to the connector part may be adjusted and set using one or more limiters. The limiters may therefore be used to adjust the panel and permit limited rotated to a final position and then statically retain the panel relative to the connector part and / or support part in the final position.

[0092] For example, after manufacture of the subassembly panels, the expandable frame may be fully deployed and the panels positioned in the desired final position to define the surface structure. One or more limiters may be adjusted to the rigidly retain the panel in the desired final position. The panel may thereafter be statically set relative to the support part and / or the connector part of the expandable frame so that during redeployment the panel returns to the desired final position.

[0093] FIG. 5D illustrates an exploded view of the connector 512 to provide the rotation connection between the connector part and the support part. As illustrated a center pin 524 may be used to extend between the connector part 512a and the support part 512b. The center pin may act as the rotational axis for the connector 520. A load sleeve 526 may optionally beDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGinserted into a slot 528 and attached to the support part and assist in the load bearing to reinforce the connector 520. The inner diameter of the load sleeve is approximately equal to but just greater than the outer diameter of the pin so that the pin fits within the load sleeve and permits rotation therebetween.

[0094] As illustrated, a support frame comprises a plurality of pivotal link pairs. Each pivotal link pair comprising a first link and a second link. The first link pivotally coupled to the second link toward an interior of the first link and the second link. Each of the pivotal link pairs of the plurality of pivotal link pairs coupled to an adjacent pivotal link pair, where a first link of each pivotal link pair is coupled to a second link of the adjacent pivotal link pair and a second link of each pivotal link pair is coupled to a first link of the adjacent pivotal link pair.

[0095] In an exemplary embodiment, the pivotal connection between the first link and the second link of the pivotal link pairs may define an rotational axis, wherein the axis is a radial axis of the expandable frame.

[0096] The first link may include a connection part that is elongated. The second link may be elongated. The elongated parts may be linear in at least one dimension (i.e. two-dimensionally curved as in a curved line). Alternatively, the elongated parts may be linear in at least two dimensions (i.e. straight).

[0097] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary portion of one of the pluralities of sectional panel subassembly including two panels in a collapsed configuration.

[0098] The radial alignment of the pivotal connections between the first links and the second links either within a pivotal pair and / or between adjacent pivotal pairs can be seen in FIG. 6.

[0099] As can be seen from the comparison of FIG.5A to FIG. 6, the plurality of panels of a subassembly can be configured between a collapsed configuration (FIG. 6) and an expanded configuration (FIG.5 A).

[0100] As seen in FIG. 6, the collapsed configuration positioned the faces of the plurality of panels defining a portion of the surface structure on top of each other such that the surfaces ofDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGthe panels defining portions of the curved surface structure are parallel to each other. The curved surfaces of the individual panels 102a, 102b may therefore be less restrictive and not flat without creating additional gaps between the surfaces curving away from each other as would be present if adject panels were collapsed in a pleated or folded configuration.

[0101] As seen in FIG.5 A, the deployed configuration positions the faces of the plurality of panels circumferentially adjacent to each other to define a portion of the curved surface structure.

[0102] As seen in a comparison of FIG.5A to FIG. 6, to transition from the collapsed configuration to the deployed configuration, adjacent panels translate relative to each other as well as rotate relative to each other. The configuration of the expandable frame permits the simultaneous translation and rotation of the individual panels relative to each other to reduce the actuators necessary to deploy the deployable structure.

[0103] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary component view of one of the panels of the plurality of panels used to create the subassembly.

[0104] As illustrated, adjacent panels may comprise mated features to couple and / or align one panel to an adjacent panel.

[0105] For example, each panel of the plurality of panels may comprise a first side with a first mated feature 720 and a second side with a second mated feature 722. The first mated feature 720 of a panel may be configured to mate with the second mated feature 722 of an adjacent panel. The mated features may include any structure to assist in the retention and / or alignment of the panel to an adjacent panel.

[0106] In an exemplary embodiment, the first mated feature 720 and the second mated feature may comprise mated surfaces such that the first mated feature fits into or with the second mated feature such that at least one-dimensional degree of freedom is reduced in the connection.

[0107] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial view of mated terminal edges of adjacent panels of the plurality of panels.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0108] As illustrated in FIG. 7 and 8, the first mated feature 720 comprises a projection and the second mated feature 722 comprises an indentation. As the panels rotated into position the projection of the first mated feature sits within the indentation of the second mate feature, thus circumferentially maintaining the relative positions of the panel to the adjacent panel.

[0109] In an exemplary embodiment, the first mated feature 720 and the second mated feature may comprise attractive magnets. As illustrated, the first mated feature may comprise a first magnet 824 and the second feature may comprise a second magnet 826 where the first magnet is configured to attract the second magnet when the panels are deployed. The mated features may each include one or more magnets.

[0110] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary side view of embodiments of the deployable space structure illustrating unique and extreme exemplary secondary collector locations that may be accommodated with exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0111] Embodiments of the exemplary deployable space structure according to embodiments described herein permit uniquely curved surfaces from the plurality of panels 102. Each panel 102 may be curved in different dimensions and do not require a constant curvature. Instead, exemplary embodiments of the curved surface structures permissible hereby include complex curved surfaces, such as parabolic cylinders. The resulting curved surface permits unique placement of secondary stages for collection and / or further reflection.

[0112] For example, an incoming ray 926a may be reflected off of the plurality of panels 102 defining the curved surface structure to reflect onto a secondary stage on the hub. The secondary stage may be a collector or another reflector. In the event it is another reflector, a third stage, comprising a collector, 924 may be positioned outside of the volume defined by the curved surface structure. For example, a second stage reflect may reflect the reflected ray 926b to a second reflected ray 926c to the collector 924. Depending on the position and angle of the secondary stage, the final collector may be above, below, outside, or otherwise positioned relative to the curved surface structure as illustrated.

[0113] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial component view of the support structure for a sectional panel subassembly according to embodiments described herein.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG

[0114] The deployable space structure comprises a support structure(s) for coupling the subassemblies to the hub. The support structure(s) may be deployable to selectively position the hub relative to the curved surface structure. The support structure(s) may permit relative positional positions and / or permit expansion / collapsing according to embodiments described herein.

[0115] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the plurality of panels are coupled to the expandable frame to define the subassembly of panels 410. A plurality of subassemblies are then coupled together through the mated features of the terminal ends of the panels and / or through the hub. The subassemblies may comprise a plurality of supports 930 to couple the subassembly to the hub.

[0116] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial view of a support structure comprising a plurality of supports 930. As illustrated a support structure may couple the subassembly to a hub. The support structure may comprise one or more support components. Each support component may comprise a first support component 1028 and a second support component 1030. The first support component 1028 may be coupled to the second support component 1030 through a connection 1036. The connection 1036 may be translationally connected to the first support component 1028. The connection 1036 is rotationally connected to the second support component 1030. The second support 1030 is coupled at its terminal end along a length of the first second support 1028 through the connector 1036. As illustrated, the second support component 1030 may be telescoping so that the length of the second support component 1030 may be changed.

[0117] As illustrated, the support structure may include one or more actuators 1034 to deploy the support structure and / or position the hub relative to the curved support structure.

[0118] FIGS. 11 A-10D illustrates different exemplary phases of deployment of the deployable space structure in the configuration of a collector according to embodiments described herein from a stored configuration to a deployed configuration. FIG. 11 A illustrates the exemplary deployable collector in a stowed configuration for storage. FIG. 1 IB illustrates the exemplary deployable collector in transition to a deployed configuration from the stowed configuration in which the sectional panel subassemblies are separated. FIG. 11C illustrates theDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGexemplary deployable collector in transition to a deployed configuration from the stowed configuration in which the sectional panel subassemblies are partially expanded in which the expandable frame extend, and the plurality of panels rotate. FIG. 1 ID illustrates the exemplary deployable collector in the deployed configuration with the sectional panel subassemblies fully open and the plurality of panels aligned in a circumferential surface structure.

[0119] A deployable structure is shown and described to define a reduced volume storage space and permit efficient and unique deployment to an expanded configuration of curved surfaces. Although the instant disclosure has substantial benefits for storage of curved surfaces, the disclosure is not so limited but may be used with any surface structure, including flat surfaces.

[0120] The deployable structure according to embodiments described herein may be used as reflectors, collectors, satellites, etc. The defined surface may therefore be reflective. The deployable structure may also include a primary stage and / or secondary stage. The primary and / or second stage may be additional reflectors and / or collectors depending on the desired arrangement of the system.

[0121] A deployable structure may include a plurality of panels coupled together by an expandable frame to create one or more subassembly panels. The one or more subassembly panels may be coupled together to define a surface.

[0122] The subassembly panel may be configured in a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The collapsed configuration may permit the plurality of panels to be positioned on top of each other such that a front a one panel is against a back of an adjacent panel in a nesting arrangement.

[0123] Subassembly panel may comprise the plurality of panels coupled together by the expandable frame. The expandable frame may be configured to circumferentially extend to create an elongated curved support structure. As the expandable frame elongates, the expandable frame is configured to simultaneously rotate the plurality of panels coupled thereto.

[0124] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, theDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGsingular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. These terms are merely intended to distinguish one component from another component, and the terms do not limit the nature, sequence or order of the constituent components.

[0125] It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout the specification, unless explicitly described to the contrary, the word “comprise” and variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of stated elements but not the exclusion of any other elements.

[0126] In this document, when terms such as “first” and “second” are used to modify a noun, such use is simply intended to distinguish one item from another, and is not intended to require a sequential order unless specifically stated. In addition, terms of relative position such as “vertical” and “horizontal”, or “front” and “rear”, when used, are intended to be relative to each other and need not be absolute, and only refer to one possible position of the device associated with those terms depending on the device’s orientation.

[0127] Further, the control logic of the present disclosure may be embodied as non-transitory computer readable media on a computer readable medium containing executable programming instructions executed by a processor, controller, or the like. Examples of computer readable media include, but are not limited to, ROM, RAM, compact disc (CD)-ROMs, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, flash drives, smart cards and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed in network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable media may be stored and executed in a distributed fashion such as, e.g., by a telematics server or a Controller Area Network (CAN).

[0128] As used herein, the terms "about," "substantially," or "approximately" for any numerical values, ranges, shapes, distances, relative relationships, etc. indicate a suitable dimensional tolerance that allows the part or collection of components to function for itsDocket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGintended purpose as described herein. Numerical ranges may also be provided herein. Unless otherwise indicated, each range is intended to include the endpoints, and any quantity within the provided range. Therefore, a range of 2-4, includes 2, 3, 4, and any subdivision between 2 and 4, such as 2.1, 2.01, and 2.001. The range also encompasses any combination of ranges, such that 2-4 includes 2-3 and 3-4.

[0129] Although embodiments of this invention have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of embodiments of this invention as defined by the appended claims. Specifically, exemplary components are described herein. Any combination of these components may be used in any combination. For example, any component, feature, step or part may be integrated, separated, sub-divided, removed, duplicated, added, or used in any combination and remain within the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments are exemplary only, and provide an illustrative combination of features, but are not limited thereto.[00130J The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRGCLAIMSThe invention claimed is:

1. A deployable structure, comprising:a plurality of subassemblies, each subassembly comprising:a plurality of panels;an expandable frame coupling the plurality of panels;a hub; anda support assembly to couple the hub to the plurality of subassemblies.

2. The deployable structure of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of panels comprises a reflective surface.

3. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the deploy able structure comprises a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration, in the collapsed configuration the plurality of panels within a subassembly are positioned approximately parallel and in the deployed configuration the plurality of panels of all of the plurality of subassemblies together define a curved surface structure.

4. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of subassemblies are configured such that the plurality of panels translate and rotate relative to each other during deployment from the collapsed configuration to the deployed configuration.

5. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the expandable frame of each of the plurality of subassemblies comprises a plurality of pivotal linked pairs, each one of the pivotal linked pairs couple to one panel of the plurality of panels, the plurality of pivotal linked pairs comprising a first link pivotally coupled to a second link, and each of the plurality of pivotally linked pairs are coupled to an adjacent pivotally linked pair.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG6. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein a first link of a pivotally linked pair is pivotally coupled to a second link of an adjacent pivotally linked pair and a second link of the pivotally linked pair is pivotally coupled to the first link of the adjacent pivotally linked pair.

7. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein an axis of rotation of each of the pivotal connections of the expandable frame intersect each other.

8. The deployable structure of claim 7, wherein the intersection of the axis of rotation of each of the pivotal connections of the expandable frame intersect along a central axis of the surface structure.

9. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein a first link of the pivotally linked pairs comprises a support component offset from a connection component, wherein the connection component is configured to couple adjacent pivotally linked pairs and the support component is configured to couple to a panel.

10. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the pivotally linked pairs comprise a limited configured to adjust a relative position of the panel to the connection component of the first link to a first position and statically retain the relative position of the panel to the connection component in the first position.

11. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein each panel of the plurality of panels comprises a mated feature, wherein a first mated feature of a panel is configured to mate with a corresponding second mated feature of an adjacent panel.

12. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the mated features of the first mated feature and the second mated feature comprises an indent / detent pair.

13. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the mated features of the first mated feature and the second mated feature comprises magnets.

14. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure comprise telescoping booms.Docket No. L002-0036PCT-PRG15. The deployable structure of any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of paired booms in which a first boom is translationally movable along the length of the second boom and the first boom is pivotally coupled to the second boom.

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