Variable Cross-Section Satellite Repeater Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current satellite designs face challenges in optimizing the external development surface, repeater module surface, and radiative surface simultaneously, leading to increased costs and the need for larger launchers when trying to adapt to different mission requirements.

Innovation Solution

A satellite with a variable master torque repeater module that adjusts its dimensions and antenna placement to accommodate specific mission needs, allowing for flexible configuration of the north/south and east/west surfaces to optimize surface areas without requiring larger launchers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If satellite dimensions are increased to optimize external development surface, repeater module surface, and radiative surface, then surface areas are improved, but launcher size requirements increase and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexternal development surfaceVSAvoidlauncher size
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The satellite employs a variable master cross-section design where the repeater module's width in the east-west direction varies along the north-south axis. This dynamic geometric configuration allows optimization of surface areas (external development, repeater module, and radiative surfaces) while maintaining a compact overall dimensions that fit within conventional launcher constraints, thereby resolving the contradiction between maximizing surface areas and minimizing launcher size requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Area of stationary object

If satellite dimensions are increased to optimize surface areas, then surface areas are improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverepeater module surfaceVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The variable master cross-section repeater module optimizes the repeater module surface area through controlled variation of the east-west width along the north-south direction, achieving maximum surface area utilization without requiring excessive overall satellite size that would drive up manufacturing costs. The design maintains compatibility with conventional production processes while optimizing performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The design varies the master cross-section parameter (width in east-west direction) along the length of the repeater module, creating an optimized surface area configuration. This parameter variation allows achieving the required repeater module surface area without proportionally increasing other dimensions that would escalate manufacturing costs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Area of stationary object

If satellite dimensions are increased to optimize surface areas, then surface areas are improved, but the need for larger capacity launchers increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiative surfaceVSAvoidlauncher compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The variable master cross-section design optimizes the radiative surface area by strategically varying the repeater module's width along its length, achieving maximum radiative surface within the constraints of conventional launcher dimensions. This allows the satellite to maintain high adaptability to different launcher types while still achieving the required radiative surface for thermal control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2962942B1Satellite with variable main cross-section
Publication Date: 2019.03.27 THALES SA
  • EP2962942B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2962942B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2962942B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

satellite comprising at least a first communication module, a second repeater module, the repeater module being composed of at least: • a first panel (120), orthogonal to the "y" axis, corresponding to the north panel when the satellite is in an orbital position, • a second panel (150) orthogonal to the x axis, which can be referenced as east, • a third panel (140) or south panel and a fourth panel (130) west panel arranged respectively opposite the first north and the second east panel, • the north panel and the south panel have widths LEO or XmcR in the east-west direction, the east panel and the west panel have a width LNS or YmcR in the north-south direction, characterized in that • the ratio XmcR/YmcR for the repeater module or LEO/LNS is within the range [0.84; 1.12], • the repeater module (220) consists of several shelves (620, 621), and the value of Xmck varies according to the shelf k and its position in the repeater module.