Portable Satellite Antenna Using Shape Memory Radiating Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handheld satellite antennas are mechanically complex and time-consuming to deploy and stow, with folding mechanisms that require individual manipulation of radiating elements and lack adequate protection and compactness for efficient use, especially in military deployments.
Innovation Solution
The antenna employs flexible, shape-memory radiating elements made of materials like harmonic steel coated with silicone, stabilized by caps, bands, or sleeves that allow easy folding and unfolding, ensuring quick deployment and protection, along with a base for enhanced versatility and directionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If hinged joints with clutch or screw are used to stabilize radiating elements in open position, then stability in open position is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical stabilization systems (clutch or screw mechanisms) with a simple elastic band that uses elastic deformation to maintain the radiating elements in the open position. This substitution eliminates the need for intricate mechanical joints and stabilization parts, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic band automatically stabilizes the radiating elements in the open position through its elastic properties, without requiring additional mechanical stabilization components. The system serves itself by using the inherent elastic deformation of the band to counteract gravitational and operational forces, eliminating the need for separate stabilization mechanisms.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If individual folding of each radiating element is required, then protection of radiating elements is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the folding and protection functions into a single collective action. All radiating elements are connected to the central axis through flexible joints that allow simultaneous folding of all elements toward the axis when the antenna is collapsed, and simultaneous extension when deployed. This eliminates the need for individual manipulation of each element, reducing deployment time while maintaining protection through the compact folded configuration.
3Volume of moving object
If radiating elements are made foldable with hinged joints, then compactness in non-use condition is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible joints and an elastic band instead of rigid hinged joints with mechanical stabilization components. The flexible joints allow the radiating elements to fold smoothly toward the central axis, achieving compactness in non-use conditions. The elastic band provides stabilization without requiring complex mechanical structures, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining compact foldable capability.
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 enables rapid and effortless switching between operational and non-operational positions, achieving maximum compactness, lightness, and protection of the radiating elements, enhancing portability and usability while maintaining directional accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The radiating elements are made of flexible memory shaped material
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3~7
AI summary
The improved portable satellite antenna (1) consists of radiating elements (2), made of flexible shape memory material, attached to a main body (3) acting as a handle. In operating condition (W) of the antenna (1) the radiating elements (2) are arranged in a fan-like radial pattern (X), while in non-use condition (H) they are folded in a position (R) in which they adhere to the main body (3). For the definition and maintenance of the above mentioned radiating elements (2) in the above mentioned folded position (R), means of stabilization (4) are provided, such as a cap (40) or a band (41), or even a collar (42) or a sleeve (43), to be associated, in a fixed or removable way, to said main body (3) and radiating elements (2), which are capable of spontaneously returning to said fan-like radial configuration (X), corresponding to said operating condition (W) of said satellite antenna (1), as a result of the removal/opening of said means of stabilization (4).