Retractable distributed array antenna

A retractable distributed array antenna, comprising:

• a multiplicity of radiative elements arranged in a beam-forming array of desired configuration and resolvable into a plurality C of columns, each having at least one of the antenna radiative elements;
• a plurality P, not exceeding C in number, of elongated column members, each supporting the antenna elements of an associated column and arranged with their elongated dimension generally parallel to one another;
• a plurality H of hinge means, each joining end portions of a pair of juxtaposed column members and adapted for urging the joined column member end portions away form each other, to place the columns of elements into the desired distributed array antenna configuration, and with at least one of the plurality of hinge means including a pair of arms each having opposed first and second ends, with each first end pivotally mounted to one another and each different arm second end pivotally mounted to different ones of said members, and forcing means, including at least one spring, for urging the second ends of the pair of arms in opposite directions;
• and
• means for controllably drawing the joined column member end portions towards each other, against the action of the hinge means, to collapse the array into a smaller volume than the volume occupied by the array when expanded.