Deployable Sun-Shade Panel Spool Mechanism for Spacecraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacecraft panels for sun-shade or solar sail applications are not retractable and require cumbersome frameworks, occupying valuable space and complicating deployment and maneuvering in outer space.
Innovation Solution
A panel deployment and retraction assembly featuring a mass component with a higher mass per unit area than the panel, rotating about a central axis, allows for the panel to be wrapped and unwrapped efficiently without a framework, enabling retraction and redeployment by adjusting the rotation rates of the panel and mass component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a framework is used to support the panel, then the panel can be deployed and maintained in position, but the framework adds to the spacecraft payload, occupies limited space, and complicates the deployment process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the framework entirely from the panel deployment system. Instead of using a traditional framework to support and deploy the panel, the invention uses a spool mechanism where the panel is wrapped around a spool and deployed by rotating the spool. This extraction of the framework eliminates the associated complexity, weight, and space occupation while maintaining panel deployment functionality through the spool-based mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the panel is deployed outside the spacecraft, then it can function as sun-shade or solar sail, but it cannot be retracted or re-deployed as needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic deployment system using a spool mechanism that allows the panel to be both deployed and retracted. The spool can rotate in both directions: rotating in one direction unwraps the panel for deployment as sun-shade or solar sail, while rotating in the opposite direction rewinds and stores the panel. This dynamic, bidirectional rotation capability provides adaptability for multiple operational states (deployed, partially deployed, stowed) while maintaining ease of operation through a single control mechanism.
3Productivity
If the framework and panel are unfolded into working position, then the panel can perform its function, but the framework is cumbersome in maneuvering and presents complications in the unfolding process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs the panel itself as a flexible wrap-around structure that encircles the spool. Instead of a rigid framework that requires complex unfolding and maneuvering, the panel is configured as a flexible membrane or thin film that can be easily wrapped around the spool and deployed by simple rotation. This flexible configuration eliminates the cumbersome nature of framework-based systems while improving deployment efficiency through a straightforward rotational motion that requires minimal maneuvering skill.
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 allows for the compact stowage and efficient deployment of panels in outer space, reducing payload and space occupancy while simplifying the deployment process, and enabling reuse as needed.
Implementation Method 1
With a rate of rotation of the mass component and a rate of rotation of the member having a same rate of rotation, the mass component rotates about the axis of rotation at a second radial distance from the axis of rotation, wherein the second radial distance is greater in dimension than the first radial distance
Implementation Method 2
With the rate of rotation of the mass component and the rate of rotation of the member being changed from having the same rate of rotation to having different rates of rotation, a radial distance of the mass component to the axis of rotation decreases from the second radial distance
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for deployment and retraction of a panel for outer space environment usage, includes a member secured to the panel with the member having an axis of rotation. Mass component connected to the panel, with panel wrapped about member with mass component positioned a first radial distance from the axis of rotation. Mass component has a mass per unit area greater than a mass per unit area of the panel adjacent to the mass component. With a rate of rotation of the mass component and member being same, the mass component rotates about the axis of rotation at a second radial distance from the axis of rotation, wherein the second radial distance is greater in dimension than the first radial distance. With a rate of rotation of the mass component and the member changed to be different, radial distance of the mass component to the axis of rotation decreases.