Deployable Space Antenna Structure With Degradable Support Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Space structures face challenges in balancing strength, size, and deployability due to environmental conditions in space, leading to limitations in antenna design and deployment mechanisms, particularly for small satellites.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a satellite base structure with a degradable layer and shape memory composite materials that allow for deployment from a stored to a deployed configuration, using a degradable layer to protect and assist the structure until deployment, and then degrade to reduce mass post-deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional rigid antenna structures are used for space deployment, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but the antenna cannot be stowed during launch and deployed in orbit due to material construction limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs shape memory alloys that can dynamically change their mechanical properties between rigid and flexible states. The antenna structure transitions from a flexible stowed configuration to a rigid deployed configuration through thermal activation, enabling both compact launch storage and reliable operational performance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes temperature-induced phase transformation in shape memory alloys to change the structural parameters of the antenna. By controlling the thermal state, the material transitions between austenite (rigid) and martensite (flexible) phases, enabling the antenna to adapt its mechanical properties for different operational phases
2Volume of moving object
If the antenna size is reduced to fit small satellites, then logistical problems during launch are reduced, but the beam pattern is compromised or narrowed
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory alloy antenna can dynamically expand from a compact stowed configuration to a full-size deployed configuration in orbit. This dynamic size change allows the antenna to maintain a small volume during launch while achieving full operational dimensions in space, preserving the beam pattern quality
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure is designed to nest within itself during stowage, with the radiating elements folded or coiled into a compact configuration that fits within the small satellite payload volume, then deployed to full size in orbit
3Reliability
If stronger materials are used to withstand deployment forces, then deployment reliability is improved, but the structure becomes heavier and larger
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory alloy changes its mechanical strength parameters through thermal activation. During deployment, the material is heated to transform from the weak martensite phase to the strong austenite phase, providing the necessary deployment forces without requiring heavier conventional materials
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure uses its own shape memory effect to generate the forces needed for self-deployment. The material's intrinsic phase transformation provides the actuation force, eliminating the need for separate heavy deployment mechanisms or motors
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 reliable deployment of antennas and solar sails by ensuring structural integrity during transition and reducing mass post-deployment, while maintaining functionality and minimizing interference.
Implementation Method 1
The degradable layer may comprise a layer degradable in outer space, such as in contact with atomic oxygen and/or radiation
Implementation Method 2
The degradable layer may comprise a layer degradable in outer space, such as in contact with atomic oxygen and/or radiation
Implementation Method 3
Exemplary embodiments include materials that are susceptible to being bent or maintaining the same shape in the stored configuration, such as being susceptible to creep
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods described herein include collapsible and deployable antenna structures. The antenna structures may include any combination of shape memory composites, inflatable envelopes, and/or degradable materials.