Mechanical Deployable Antenna Array With Stored-Energy Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite array systems in space require complex and power-intensive deployment mechanisms, and struggle to form large, contiguous antenna arrays efficiently, especially in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) environments.
Innovation Solution
A self-deployable Mechanical Deployable Structure (LMDS) comprising lightweight, interconnected satellite tiles with stored-energy connectors and latching mechanisms, allowing for compact stowage and effortless deployment in space to form a large, contiguous phase array without gaps, utilizing stored-energy connectors like tape springs and latching systems for mechanical and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If complex power-intensive deployment mechanisms are used, then the array can be deployed, but the power consumption increases and deployment efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs stored-energy connectors that automatically deploy the array without requiring external power sources during deployment. The connectors contain pre-stored mechanical energy that is released to drive the deployment process, making the system self-service and eliminating the need for power-intensive deployment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The stored-energy connectors are pre-charged with mechanical energy before deployment. This preliminary action of storing energy in advance allows the deployment to occur without requiring power during the actual deployment process, thereby improving deployment efficiency while reducing power consumption.
2Reliability
If traditional deployment mechanisms are used, then the array can be assembled, but the structural integrity may be compromised and antenna operations may be interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The array is divided into multiple discrete antenna assemblies that are connected by stored-energy connectors. This segmentation allows each assembly to be independently positioned and connected, maintaining structural integrity while simplifying the overall deployment mechanism. The modular structure enables reliable assembly without complex interlocking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The stored-energy connectors act as intermediaries between adjacent antenna assemblies. These connectors provide a simple yet effective mechanical connection that maintains structural integrity without requiring complex deployment mechanisms. The connectors facilitate reliable assembly by serving as intermediate elements that join assemblies together in a straightforward manner.
3Volume of moving object
If the array is designed for compact stowage, then transportation volume is reduced, but the deployment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna assemblies are designed to nest within each other during stowage, with smaller assemblies fitting within or alongside larger ones. This nesting arrangement achieves compact transportation volume without requiring complex deployment mechanisms, as the stored-energy connectors naturally guide the assemblies into their deployed configuration from the nested stowed state.
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
Enables efficient, power-free deployment of large satellite arrays in space, reducing transportation volume and facilitating the formation of extensive arrays with minimal human intervention, while maintaining structural integrity and avoiding interference with antenna operations.
Implementation Method 1
stored-energy connectors like tape springs
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna array has a plurality of square or rectangular antenna assemblies. Each assembly includes a first antenna assembly surface with a solar cell and a second antenna assembly with one or more antenna elements. The antenna assemblies are interconnected without gaps therebetween to form a first contiguous array surface comprised of the first antenna assembly surfaces and a second contiguous array surface comprised of the second antenna assembly surfaces. The antenna assemblies are connected together by mechanically stored-energy connectors, such as spring tape, that self-deploy the array in space without the use of electric energy.