Solar Cell Array Stowage Using Bow Spring and Tensile Force Members
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar cell array technologies face challenges in efficiently stowing and deploying flexible solar cell arrays on spacecraft, particularly in compact and lightweight configurations that can withstand the conditions beyond Earth's atmosphere.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell array system featuring a housing structure with a restraint mechanism, a bow spring compression member, and tensile force members like tethers, which work together to securely stow and deploy the solar cell array by using a valance with opposing restraint rails, end beams, and load-bearing edges to manage compressive and tensile forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If solar cell arrays are made flexible and compact for stowage, then they can be more easily stored on spacecraft, but they become more difficult to deploy and maintain structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The solar cell array is divided into multiple panels that can be individually supported by pivotally connected beams. Each panel can be independently managed during deployment, reducing the structural burden on any single component while maintaining overall array integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotally connected beams are designed to nest within each other in the stowed position, allowing compact storage. During deployment, these nested beams extend to form the supporting structure for the solar panels, transitioning from a compact nested state to an extended supportive structure.
2Volume of moving object
If solar panels are individually supported by pivotally connected beams that nest within each other, then stowage is compact, but the deployment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The deployment mechanism utilizes dynamic pivotal connections that allow beams to transition from a nested stowed configuration to an extended deployed configuration. The pivotal joints enable smooth transformation between states, reducing the need for complex locking and unlocking mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If a rolled structure is used for stowage and deployment by unrolling in response to heat from the sun, then the mechanism is simple, but deployment reliability is reduced due to dependence on thermal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically deploys the solar array without requiring external intervention or specific environmental conditions. The spring mechanism stores potential energy during stowage and automatically converts it to kinetic energy for deployment, ensuring reliable operation independent of thermal conditions.
4Extent of automation
If hinged isogrid panels with solar cells are stowed in a folded stack for automatic deployment, then deployment is automatic, but the stowage volume and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The isogrid panels are designed with localized hinging at specific points, allowing automatic deployment through controlled pivoting at these strategic locations. This localized approach to flexibility enables automation while minimizing the overall structural complexity and stowage volume compared to fully flexible designs.
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
The system allows for a compact, lightweight, and self-contained stowage of solar cell arrays while ensuring secure deployment and protection, minimizing thermal distortion and enabling efficient expansion into a fully functional array.
Implementation Method 1
at least one compression member, which is shown as a roll-up beam assembly in the form of a bow spring. The bow spring is attached to the housing structure and is configured to extend to and engage the end wall. As the bow spring extends it pushes the end wall from the housing structure
Implementation Method 2
at least one tensile force member that carries a tensile load, which is shown as a tether connected to and extending between the housing structure and the end beam
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methods associated with the stowing, deploying, and deployment of a solar cell array. With reference to some exemplary embodiments this disclosure teaches apparatuses, systems, and methods directed to a solar cell array system that is a relatively lightweight, compact, and self-contained structure that securely stores, protects, and deploys the solar array. With reference to some exemplary embodiments this disclosure teaches apparatuses, systems, and methods for deploying a solar cell array that is held in the deployed configuration by self-contained compressive force and tensile force members such that no loads are carried through the solar cell panels.