Deployable Membrane LPDA Antenna for Compact Space Stowage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Log-periodic dipole array (LPDA) antennas are historically limited for space applications due to their large size and weight, which exceed launch vehicle specifications and are susceptible to damage from gravitational and vibrational forces during launch.
Innovation Solution
A deployable antenna system featuring flexible membranes and support structures that can be furled and stowed compactly for launch, then expanded to a larger operational size using extendable support structures, including axial and radial support structures to unfurl the membranes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional rigid LPDA antennas are used, then antenna functionality is maintained, but weight and size exceed launch vehicle specifications
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure transitions from a static rigid form to a dynamic deployable form. The membrane-based LPDA antenna is stowed in a compact configuration during launch and then deployed to its full operational size in space, allowing the structure to adapt its state based on mission phase requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional rigid metallic antenna elements with flexible membrane structures that can be folded and compressed for launch, then unfurled to form the functional antenna array in orbit. The membrane incorporates conductive traces to maintain electrical functionality while enabling compact stowage.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If rigid LPDA antenna structures are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but susceptibility to damage from gravitational and vibrational forces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible membrane structure can flex and deform to accommodate launch vibrations and gravitational forces without suffering catastrophic damage. The membrane's inherent flexibility allows it to absorb mechanical stresses that would damage rigid structures, while maintaining its functional integrity for post-launch operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployable structure transitions from a protected stowed state during launch to an operational deployed state in space. During launch, the compact folded configuration protects the antenna elements from damage, and after launch, the structure deploys to its functional form where it operates free from launch-related harmful factors.
3Volume of moving object
If compact stowage is implemented, then launch vehicle specifications are met, but deployment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is divided into multiple segments or panels that can be folded relative to each other for compact stowage. These segmented sections are connected through hinges or flexible joints that allow them to unfold into the complete antenna array, enabling compact storage without requiring complex active deployment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure is pre-configured with fold lines, hinges, or flexible joints during manufacturing that enable automatic or passive deployment. The structure is designed to unfold naturally from its stowed configuration, reducing the need for complex active deployment mechanisms and control systems during launch and deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable antenna system for deployment in an extraterrestrial environment is provided, the deployable antenna system comprising a deployment mechanism including one or more extendable support structures comprising at least one axial support structure adapted to extend in a z-direction parallel to a z-axis in the deployable antenna system and a deployable antenna attached to the one or more extendable support structures and adapted to be stowed in an undeployed state and to be unfurled into a deployed state by the deployment mechanism, the deployable antenna being further adapted to extend and unfurl during deployment from the deployment mechanism in the z-direction responsive to extension of the at least one axial support structure, the deployable antenna including one or more flexible membranes coupled to the at least one axial support structure and extending from the z-axis in the deployed state.