Impact dynamic response of large aperture space deployable antenna supporting structures based on a dual-scale model

Abstract

This study investigates the joint damage patterns and changes in shape accuracy of large aperture space deployable antenna supporting structures subject to hypervelocity impacts from micro space debris. Based on the dual-scale method, a joint scale model is constructed for a hexagonal prismatic space deployable truss antenna supporting structure with an aperture of six meters and 37 modules. ANSYS/AUTODYN is used for the impact damage analysis, with an equivalent model of impact force integrating the structure's actual damage characteristics in the structure scale model. The dynamic response and deformation performance of the antenna supporting structure under impact velocities from 2.5 to 15.0 km/s, with spherical space debris of 2.5 mm and 5.0 mm diameters, impacting modular central points in both positive and negative directions, are analyzed. The results show that the primary damage to the joint scale model after impact includes cratering, perforation, punch failure, and joint failure. The debris diameter significantly influences joint damage and deformation of the bolt hole diameter. Additionally, the debris cloud post-impact significantly affects the vertical bar's inner wall, spalling the wall and reducing the rod's strength. As the impact point moves towards the structure's centroid, the antenna's overall response increases. With higher impact velocities, the antenna supporting structure's overall deformation first increases, then decreases. At an impact velocity of 12.5 km/s, the impact area of the structure gradually reduces post-impact. Our proposed joint damage forms and three-case damage classification (no effect, repairable, and joint failure) may serve as a valuable reference for designing structural protection and impact identification for space deployable antennas.