Modular Deployable Space Antenna With Collapsible Longerons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antennas for space applications face a trade-off between aperture size and weight, where larger apertures are desired for higher gain and efficiency but increase the launch cost due to larger stowed volumes.
Innovation Solution
The use of batten-less trusses with collapsible and deformable longerons, allowing for modular deployment of large aperture structures that can be disassembled into smaller sections for stowage, then assembled in orbit using a co-orbiting assembler robot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If larger aperture antennas are used, then antenna gain and efficiency are improved, but stowed volume and launch cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is divided into multiple deployable sections or panels that can be folded together. Each section contains its own support truss and reflective surface, allowing the large aperture antenna to be segmented into smaller units for stowage, then deployed in space to form the complete large aperture structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployable sections are designed to nest within each other during stowage, with smaller sections fitting inside larger ones. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall stowed volume while maintaining the capability to expand into the full aperture configuration when deployed.
2Area of moving object
If larger aperture antennas are used, then antenna gain and efficiency are improved, but launch cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the antenna into multiple smaller deployable units, the overall stowed volume is reduced, allowing more efficient utilization of launch vehicle payload capacity. This segmentation enables the launch of larger aperture antennas without proportionally increasing launch costs, as the segmented configuration optimizes space utilization.
3Volume of moving object
If collapsible longerons are used, then stowed volume is reduced, but structural rigidity during deployment must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The longerons are designed with collapsible mechanisms that allow them to transition between a compact folded state for stowage and an extended rigid state for deployment. During deployment, the longerons maintain structural rigidity to support the reflective surfaces and maintain antenna shape, while in the stowed configuration, they collapse to minimize volume.
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 the deployment of large aperture antennas with reduced stowed volume, lowering launch costs by allowing multiple antennas per launch vehicle and improving deployment reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The longerons may be hinged, comprise a shape memory composite, or include other deformable material.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods described herein include collapsible and deployable structures that may be used as antenna, collectors, reflectors, or other large structures. The systems and methods may use modular designs so that larger structures may be obtained for space applications.