Flexible Thermal Insulation Sheets for Satellite Radiators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermal control systems for telecommunications satellites are bulky, complex, and interfere with other satellite appendages, and they require significant electrical power for heating, which could be used for propulsion during transfer phases.
Innovation Solution
A compact, lightweight thermal insulation device using flexible insulating sheets that can be folded and unfolded independently of other satellite components, allowing for adjustable thermal protection without protruding from the satellite's surface, utilizing a single drive motor and cable system with guide rollers and elastic elements for stability and ease of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If deployable radiators are used to provide thermal insulation, then thermal protection is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to the difficulty of producing and mounting heat transfer systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible insulating sheets instead of rigid deployable radiators with complex heat transfer systems. The flexible sheets can be easily mounted and removed, providing thermal insulation without the complexity of traditional deployable radiator systems including heat pipes, mounting structures, and control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible insulating sheets are designed as simple, inexpensive components that can be easily replaced or adjusted. Rather than investing in expensive, complex deployable radiator systems, the patent uses affordable flexible materials that provide adequate thermal protection for the mission duration.
2Temperature
If deployable radiators are used to provide thermal insulation, then thermal protection is improved, but the device becomes bulky and requires significant space
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible insulating sheets are thin, lightweight materials that can be stored compactly during launch and deployed when needed. Unlike rigid deployable radiators that require substantial structural support and storage space, the flexible sheets can be rolled or folded into small packages that fit within the satellite's limited volume.
3Temperature
If traditional thermal insulation devices are used, then thermal protection is provided, but they protrude from the satellite body and interfere with other appendages
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible insulating sheets conform to the satellite's surface and can be positioned precisely where thermal protection is needed without protruding outward. Their flexibility allows them to adapt to the satellite's geometry and coexist with solar panels, antennas, and other appendages without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal insulation system is designed to be dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. The flexible sheets can be deployed, repositioned, or removed based on the satellite's operational phase and the positions of its appendages, providing thermal protection that adapts to changing configurations.
4Temperature
If electrical power is used for heating the payload during transfer phase, then minimum operating temperature is maintained, but electrical power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible insulating sheets are applied to the payload before the transfer phase to prevent heat loss proactively. By providing thermal insulation in advance, the system reduces the need for active heating during the transfer phase, thereby reducing electrical power consumption while maintaining the payload above its minimum operating temperature.
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 provides efficient thermal management with minimal electrical energy consumption, allowing for flexible deployment and retraction, compatibility with various satellite configurations, and the ability to redirect thermal protection as needed, thus optimizing power usage and reducing interference with other systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one thermal insulation device capable of thermally insulating the body from the space
Implementation Method 2
The drive cable is formed in an elastic element in a position such that it absorbs variations in its length linked to large variations in temperature
Data Source
Figure 1~8
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention concerns a spacecraft (2) comprising a body (4) having a face (6, 16, 18), a radiator (22) carried by said face and a thermal insulation device (28) capable of thermally insulating the body (4) from the space environment. The thermal insulation device (28) comprises a flexible insulating sheet that can be moved between an unfolded position in which the flexible sheet covers a coverable area (36) of the radiator, and a position folded on itself in which said coverable area (36) of the radiator is exposed to the space environment. The flexible sheet (32, 34) comprises several folds (43) that extend perpendicular to the direction of movement of the flexible sheet (32, 34), the folds (43) being folded against each other when the flexible sheet is in the folded position, the folds (43) being moved apart from each other when the flexible sheet is in an unfolded position.