Multi-Axis Antenna Boom for Compact Stowage and Realignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna systems for space vehicles face challenges in compact stowing and deployment, particularly in accommodating large antenna geometries with required torsional rigidity, adjustability, and thermoelastic stability, and in performing realignment for optimal transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a multi-axis boom with foldable joints to stow and deploy an antenna reflector, allowing for sequential unfolding to achieve a deployed position that reflects radiofrequency waves, and incorporating hold and release mechanisms for secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional telescoping booms are used for antenna deployment, then the antenna can be extended from a compact position, but the system cannot accommodate large antenna geometries with required torsional rigidity and thermoelastic stability
Solution Approach 1:
The boom is divided into multiple deployable segments that can be sequentially extended. Each segment maintains structural integrity while the segmented design allows the boom to achieve both compact stowage volume and large deployed geometry with adequate torsional rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The boom transitions from a static telescoping structure to a dynamic deployable structure with multiple degrees of freedom. This allows the antenna to be compact during launch and then deployed to large geometries with proper structural rigidity when needed.
2Ease of operation
If existing boom systems are used, then antenna deployment is possible, but the system lacks adjustability for trimming in azimuth and elevation, steering, zooming, or aligning
Solution Approach 1:
The deployable boom system is designed to perform multiple functions: deployment, trimming in azimuth and elevation, steering, zooming, and aligning. This multi-functional design allows a single system to handle both simple deployment and complex realignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The boom incorporates multiple degrees of freedom that enable dynamic adjustment of the antenna position and orientation. This allows the system to transition from a simple deployable structure to an adjustable platform capable of trimming, steering, zooming, and aligning the antenna for optimal performance.
3Manufacturing precision
If custom parts and materials are used in existing systems, then specific deployment geometries can be achieved, but the system becomes expensive and requires complex deployment testing setups
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna support structure is segmented into standardized modular components that can be manufactured using conventional processes. This segmentation allows for precise deployment geometries through standardized interfaces while reducing manufacturing costs and complexity compared to custom monolithic structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses adjustable parameters in the deployable boom design (such as segment lengths, joint configurations, and deployment sequences) to achieve precise deployment geometries without requiring custom parts. This allows geometry optimization while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables compact stowing during launch, optimal deployment geometry for various mission requirements, and the ability to trim, steer, and realign the antenna for improved performance and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a boom comprising a plurality of boom segments rotatably connected in series by a plurality of joints, each joint having an axis of rotation parallel to the other joints' axes of rotation
Implementation Method 2
deploying the antenna reflector to a deployed position by sequentially unfolding the boom at the joints to reflect radiofrequency (RF) waves to or from a feed device
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 1D~1E
AI summary
A system for compact stowing of an antenna using a multi-axis boom, and methods of using the same, are provided. The antenna includes a feed device for providing/receiving a signal, a reflector for reflecting the signal, and a boom for deploying the reflector by transitioning from a first boom configuration to a second boom configuration, the transition moving the reflector from a first to a second reflector position. The boom includes a first boom segment providing a length of the boom, a proximal rotatable joint disposed at a proximal end of the boom and rotatable about a proximal joint rotation axis, a distal rotatable joint connectable to the reflector and rotatable about a distal joint rotation axis, and a first actuator configured to transition the boom from the first boom configuration to the second boom configuration by rotating a rotatable joint about the corresponding rotation axis.