Scalable high compaction ratio mesh hoop column deployable reflector system

A reflector system, comprising:

• a hoop assembly comprising a plurality of link members extending between a plurality of hinge members, the hoop assembly moveable between a collapsed configuration wherein the link members extend substantially parallel to one another and an expanded configuration wherein the link members define a circumferential hoop;
• a collapsible mesh reflector surface secured to the hoop assembly with a plurality of cords such that when the hoop assembly is in the collapsed configuration, the reflector surface is collapsed within the hoop assembly and when the hoop assembly is in the expanded configuration, the reflector surface is expanded to a shape that is intended to concentrate RF energy in a desired pattern;
• and
• a mast assembly comprising an elongate, extendible mast configured to be coiled around a spool, wherein the hoop is secured by a plurality of cords to the distal end of the mast and to the base of the mast, such that when the mast is fully extended the tensioned cords maintain the shape of the hoop.

A reflector system, comprising:

• a hoop assembly comprising a plurality of link members extending between a plurality of hinge members, the hoop assembly automatically expands between a collapsed configuration wherein the link members extend substantially parallel to one another and an expanded configuration wherein the link members define a circumferential hoop;
• a collapsible mesh reflector surface secured to the hoop assembly with a plurality of cords such that when the hoop assembly is in the collapsed configuration, the reflector surface is collapsed within the hoop assembly and when the hoop assembly is in the expanded configuration, the reflector surface is expanded to a shape that is intended to concentrate RF energy in a desired pattern;
• a mast assembly including an extendible mast, wherein the hoop assembly is secured by a plurality of cords relative to a top portion of the mast and to a bottom portion of the mast such that upon extension of the mast to a deployed condition, the hoop assembly is supported by the mast;
• and
• a housing in which the hoop assembly, reflector surface and mast assembly are stowed prior to deployment.

A method of deploying a reflector of a reflector system comprising a housing, a hoop assembly positioned in the housing and comprising a plurality of link members extending between a plurality of hinge members, the hoop assembly biased to move from a collapsed configuration wherein the link members extend substantially parallel to one another to an expanded configuration wherein the link members define a circumferential hoop;

• a collapsible mesh reflector surface secured to the hoop assembly such that when the hoop assembly is in the collapsed configuration, the reflector surface is collapsed within the hoop assembly and when the hoop assembly is in the expanded configuration, the reflector surface is expanded to a shape that is intended to concentrate RF energy in a desired pattern;
• and a mast assembly including an extendible mast, wherein the hinge members are secured by cords relative to a top portion of the mast and a bottom portion of the mast, the method comprising:
• extending the mast beyond a full deployment length such that a cord tension between the hinges and the mast facilitates a controlled deployment of the hoop assembly;
• and
• retracting the mast toward the full deployment such that the hoop assembly fully expands to the expanded configuration in a controlled manner.