Deployable Satellite Antenna Architecture for RF Source Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite antennas face layout challenges due to the voluminous dimensions of RF sources, particularly in multi-beam antennas, which restricts their deployment and installation, especially during launch when space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A deployable source block architecture featuring a network of RF sources mounted on a rotatable panel, with contactless RF junctions allowing the array to be stored compactly and deployed as needed, enabling a larger size without installation issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If RF sources are mounted in fixed positions on the satellite, then the antenna structure is simple and stable, but the volume occupied by RF sources restricts satellite layout and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into a fixed support structure and a deployable panel that can be separated during launch and deployed in orbit. The RF sources are mounted on the deployable panel rather than being permanently fixed to the satellite body, allowing the fixed structure to remain compact while the RF array can be larger when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The RF source array transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic deployable configuration. The panel can be rotated between a stowed position during launch and a deployed position during operation, transforming the system from a compact to an expanded state to resolve the volume contradiction.
2Volume of stationary object
If RF sources are miniaturized to reduce bulk, then the volume occupied is reduced, but minimum size conditions for waveguides and radiating horns cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The solution moves the RF sources from a two-dimensional fixed mounting surface on the satellite to a three-dimensional deployable panel structure. This allows the RF sources to maintain their required minimum dimensions for proper RF performance while the panel itself can be folded or rotated to fit within limited launch volume constraints.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of RF sources are arranged in networks for multi-beam coverage, then multi-spot coverage capability is improved, but layout problems on satellites worsen during launch
Solution Approach 1:
The large network of RF sources for multi-beam coverage is segmented onto a separate deployable panel rather than being distributed across the fixed satellite structure. This allows the entire RF array to be installed as a single module and then deployed to its operational configuration, simplifying launch logistics while maintaining the capability for complex multi-beam patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The RF source network transitions from a compact stowed configuration during launch to an expanded operational configuration in orbit. The deployable panel allows the RF array to achieve its full multi-beam coverage geometry only when deployed, resolving the contradiction between launch simplicity and operational versatility.
4Device complexity
If RF sources are mounted on one face of the satellite, then the antenna structure is simplified, but space constraints during launch are not resolved
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure incorporates a deployable panel that can be rotated between a stowed position parallel to the satellite face during launch and a deployed position perpendicular to the satellite face during operation. This dynamic transformation allows the system to appear compact during launch while providing sufficient space for the RF sources when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The RF source array is mounted on a panel that utilizes the third dimension (depth) when deployed, rather than being constrained to the two-dimensional surface of the satellite face. The panel rotates outward, creating additional volumetric space for the RF sources while maintaining a compact profile during launch.
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 allows for a compact and efficient deployment of RF sources, overcoming the space constraints on satellites by using a rotatable panel with contactless RF junctions, ensuring reliable RF communication while maintaining performance.
Implementation Method 1
contactless RF junctions, each RF junction consisting of two distinct parts, respectively a first connection flange mounted on the deployable panel and a second connection flange mounted on the support, the first connection flange being connected to an input/output port of an RF source, the second connection flange being intended, in the second deployed position, to cooperate without contact with the first connection flange to ensure a contactless RF link
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The deployable source block architecture comprises a support (50) and an RF source array (21), each RF source (21) consisting of an RF chain (22) and a radiating element (23), the RF chain (22) being equipped with input/output ports (1, 2). The architecture includes a deployable panel (41) pivoted about an axis of rotation (40), the RF source array (21) being mounted on the panel (41), the panel (41) being rotatable between a first storage position of the RF source array (21) on the support (50) and a second position in which the RF source array (21) is deployed