Integrated Spacecraft Array Panel With Embedded Structural Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacecraft communications antennas are developed independently from the spacecraft platform, leading to increased mass and volume due to protruding array elements and reduced reflector sizes, which are undesirable for space applications.
Innovation Solution
Integrate array elements into the spacecraft platform's panel, providing both structural and communication functions, with array elements partially embedded within the panel surface and arranged in a honeycomb configuration to optimize structural integrity and minimize protrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If array elements are mounted on a panel and protrude from the surface, then communication functionality is provided, but spacecraft volume increases even in stowed configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The array element structure is merged with the panel structure, where the array element structure serves dual purposes: supporting the communication components and providing structural support for the panel. This integration eliminates the need for separate protruding array elements while maintaining communication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The array element structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the communication components (array element, feed, etc.) and simultaneously serves as a structural component of the panel. This multi-functionality reduces the overall volume required for communication elements.
2Reliability
If array elements are mounted on a panel, then communication functionality is provided, but additional mass is added to the spacecraft
Solution Approach 1:
The array element structure is combined with the panel structure, eliminating redundant mass. The integrated structure serves both as a support for communication components and as a load-bearing panel component, reducing the total mass compared to separate mounting structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The array element structure performs dual functions: supporting communication components and providing structural support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated mounting structures, thereby reducing overall spacecraft mass.
3Adaptability or versatility
If reflector size is reduced to accommodate more array elements, then support for mobile device transmissions is improved, but array elements account for higher proportion of spacecraft mass
Solution Approach 1:
The array element structure is merged with the panel structure, reducing the mass of individual array elements through shared structural support. This allows for increased array element count with reduced reflector size while controlling the overall mass proportion of array elements.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a spacecraft and an integrated panel for providing integrated communications and structural functionality of the spacecraft. The integrated panel is configured to form and provide a structural path of at least a part of a platform of the spacecraft. The integrated panel includes an array for transmitting or receiving a plurality of communication signals. The array includes a plurality of array elements for transmitting or receiving the plurality of communication signals. A first array element of the array elements is disposed at least in part internally in the platform with respect to a surface of the integrated panel. The first array element includes first communications components configured to transmit or receive the plurality of communication signals. The first array element includes a first array element structure configured to provide a structure of the first array element and, at least in part, the structural path of the integrated panel.