Mechanical Deployable Antenna Array With Gap-Free Self-Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite communication systems face challenges in efficiently deploying large arrays of small satellite antenna assemblies in space, requiring innovative solutions for mechanical deployment and interconnection without gaps.
Innovation Solution
The development of a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Mechanical Deployable Structure (LMDS) comprising a plurality of discrete antenna assemblies, or tiles, that are mechanically connected by stored-energy connectors and latches, allowing for self-deployment in space to form a large contiguous phase array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional satellite antenna systems are used, then communication coverage can be provided, but the deployment complexity and cost increase significantly when scaling to large arrays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large antenna array into multiple small, identical satellite units (microsatellites or cubesats), each carrying a subset of antenna elements. These modular units can be manufactured independently using standardization, then deployed together to form the complete array, dramatically reducing overall deployment complexity while achieving large coverage area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hierarchical structure where individual antenna elements are nested within satellite units, which are in turn nested within orbital constellations. This nested organization allows systematic scaling - adding more satellite units automatically increases array coverage without proportionally increasing deployment complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If physical gaps exist between antenna assemblies, then manufacturing and deployment become easier, but array performance deteriorates due to discontinuous aperture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple satellite units into a coherent phased array system where the individual units are closely spaced and coherently controlled. The merging of signals from adjacent units creates an effective continuous aperture, achieving high manufacturing precision in array performance while maintaining the ease of manufacturing individual modular units independently
3Measurement precision
If manual assembly of antenna arrays is performed, then precise alignment can be achieved, but deployment time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-alignment mechanisms where each satellite unit carries onboard sensors and actuators that automatically adjust its position and orientation relative to neighbors. This self-service capability achieves precise array alignment without requiring time-consuming manual intervention, reducing deployment time while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback control systems that continuously monitor the relative positions of satellite units and make real-time adjustments. This closed-loop control achieves and maintains precise array alignment automatically, eliminating the need for manual assembly while ensuring high measurement precision in the final configuration
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
This solution enables the formation of a large, contiguous, and planar satellite array in space with minimal human intervention, providing efficient communication capabilities and adaptable configuration for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
mechanically connected by stored-energy connectors and latches
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.