Deployable antenna reflector
OwnerJuan M. Fernandez, Andrew F. Paddock +1inventors
InventorsJuan M. Fernandez, Andrew F. Paddock, Kevin DeMarco
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Abstract
Self-deploying reflector array architectures include stacked multiple panels attached to a central panel by sets of heat actuated flexible hinges on their non-functional sides create surface of revolution, cylindrical and flat reflector arrays in accordance with panel curvature. Robotic in-space assembly of multiple smaller arrays allows for creation of reflector array of 10 or more meters to support S-band and above RF (≥2 GHz) transmission.
Claims17
A process for assembling multiple individual reflector sub-arrays into a consolidated reflector array, the process comprising:
- deploying multiple individual reflector sub-arrays from their stowed positions, each of the multiple individual reflector sub-arrays including multiple connected panels and a connecting boom for maintaining connection with a spacecraft, wherein deploying an individual reflector sub-array includes activating one or more hinges connected between each side panel and a central panel of the subarray on the non-functional surfaces thereof to deploy each of the side panels from their stowed positions;
- robotically connecting each of the multiple deployed individual sub-arrays to a designated central deployed individual sub-array, wherein the boom of each of the multiple deployed individual sub-arrays is robotically attached to a different connection point on the central deployed individual sub-array;
- and
- further wherein at least one additional securing mechanism is robotically attached between at least one panel of each of the multiple deployed individual sub-arrays and a panel of the designated central deployed individual sub-array.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.