Offset Tape-Spring Deployment for Controlled Solar Generator Unfolding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tape-springs face challenges in controlled deployment, especially for very large sized solar generators, as they tend to unfold violently and uncontrollably, lacking a satisfactory technological solution for deploying three-dimensional reinforcing structures to support large surface area solar generators.
Innovation Solution
A solar generator deployment device utilizing primary and secondary tape-springs co-wound around a mandrel, with offsetting means such as a mobile element or mechanical actuator to deploy a reinforcing structure opposite the solar energy conversion face, allowing for progressive and controlled deployment of flexible membranes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional tape-springs are used for deployment, then the structure can be compactly wound, but the unfolding becomes violent and uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The deployment system is divided into primary tape-springs and secondary tape-springs with distinct functions. Primary tape-springs provide the main deployment force, while secondary tape-springs support the membrane and reinforcing structure. This segmentation allows controlled deployment by separating the unwinding function from the support function.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary tape-springs are pre-wound around the mandrel alongside the primary tape-springs in a co-wound configuration. The offsetting means are pre-positioned to ensure proper separation. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when deployment begins, the secondary tape-springs are ready to support the membrane immediately as they unwind.
2Area of moving object
If very large sized solar generators are deployed, then the energy generation capacity increases, but the structural support requirements become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing structure is deployed in a third dimension by using offsetting means that separate the secondary tape-springs from the primary tape-springs radially. This creates a three-dimensional reinforcing framework that provides structural support for large solar generators without requiring complex two-dimensional bracing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines flexible membrane material with a three-dimensional reinforcing structure made from tape-springs. This composite approach allows the solar generator to have both flexibility for deployment and structural rigidity when deployed, supporting very large surface areas.
3Strength
If the reinforcing structure is deployed on the same side as the solar elements, then the membrane is supported, but the solar energy conversion is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of deploying the reinforcing structure on the same side as the solar elements (which would block sunlight), the offsetting means deploy the secondary tape-springs and reinforcing structure on the opposite side of the membrane. This inverted arrangement provides structural support without interfering with solar energy conversion.
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 controlled and progressive deployment of large sized solar generators with a three-dimensional reinforcing structure, reducing vibration issues and enhancing mechanical stiffness, thus supporting large surface area solar generators effectively.
Implementation Method 1
tapes that can switch from the wound state to the unwound state essentially by virtue of their own elastic energy
Data Source
AI summary
A solar generator deployment device includes at least one primary tape-spring supporting a flexible membrane with a set of flexible photovoltaic cells on one face, at least one secondary tape-spring, and a reinforcing structure attached to the primary tape-spring and secondary tape-spring, said device having a wound state in which the primary tape-spring supporting the flexible membrane and secondary tape-spring and reinforcing structure are co-wound around a mandrel; and an unwound state in which said primary tape-spring and secondary tape-spring are unwound. The device comprises, at the level of said mandrel, means for offsetting, in the unwound state, the root of said secondary tape-spring so that the reinforcing structure is deployed within a volume situated on the side opposite the face of the flexible membrane comprising flexible photovoltaic cells and supports said flexible membrane, the device then being in the deployed state.