Segmented Satellite Antenna Reflector Deployment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The large size of rigid satellite antenna reflectors poses bulk transportation challenges when launching satellites into space, necessitating a segmented structure that can efficiently deploy in space while maintaining structural integrity and connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A segmented structure with a deployment device comprising a translation system and a rotation system, utilizing motors and helical connections to move and rotate secondary panels relative to a main panel, allowing for efficient deployment from a storage to a deployed position, forming a continuous assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large rigid satellite antenna reflector is used, then the antenna gain and performance are improved, but the bulk transportation and launch complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna reflector is divided into multiple segments that can be folded together during launch and deployed in space. Each segment contains sub-elements that can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing the structure to fit within launch vehicle constraints while maintaining the required antenna performance when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested folding mechanism where antenna segments are arranged in a compact configuration during launch, with segments nested within each other similar to nested dolls. This allows the large antenna structure to be transported in a small volume and then deployed to its full size in space
2Volume of moving object
If a segmented structure is used to reduce launch volume, then the transportation efficiency is improved, but the deployment complexity and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple deployment functions into integrated mechanisms. The folding and unfolding actions are achieved through coordinated movement of connected segments sharing common deployment mechanisms, reducing the overall number of independent actuators and control systems required
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment mechanism utilizes dynamic motion sequences where segments are unfolded in a controlled sequence through rotational and translational movements. The system transitions from a static compact configuration to a dynamic deployed state using motorized actuators that control the timing and sequence of segment deployment
3Volume of moving object
If a segmented structure with deployment device is used, then the launch volume is reduced, but the deployment time and operation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna segments are pre-configured in a compact nested arrangement during manufacturing and launch preparation. Deployment mechanisms are pre-positioned and pre-tested, allowing for rapid unfolding sequences once in space without requiring complex real-time adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment process utilizes continuous rotational and translational movements of segments rather than discrete step-by-step adjustments. Motors drive segments through continuous motion paths that maintain structural integrity while reducing the total time required to transition from compact to deployed configuration
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 effective and advantageous deployment of satellite antenna reflector panels in space, reducing launch complexities and ensuring structural integrity and connectivity, while allowing for a compact storage configuration during launch.
Implementation Method 1
a translation system comprising at least one translation unit provided with a motor with helical connection, said translation system being linked to said secondary panel and being able to generate a translational movement of said secondary panel with respect to said main panel
Implementation Method 2
a rotation system capable of generating a rotation of said translation system and of the secondary panel linked to said translation system, with respect to said main panel, said rotation system comprising at least one rotation unit capable of generating a rotation between a first element structure integral with the rear face of the main panel and a second structural element to which the translation system is linked
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4A~5B
Figure 6A~7B
AI summary
The invention relates to a segmented structure (1) which includes at least two panels (2, 3, 4), a so-called main panel (2) and a so-called secondary panel (3, 4), as well as at least one deployment device (5) capable of moving a connected secondary panel (3, 4) into a storage position (P1) or into a deployed position, the deployment device (5) comprising a translation system (6) provided with at least one helical geared motor, capable of translating the secondary panel (3, 4) relative to the main panel (2), and a rotation system (9) capable of rotating the translation system (6) and the secondary panel (3, 4) connected to the translation system (6), relative to said main panel (2).