Structural design and optimization of large cable–rib tension deployable antenna structure with dynamic constraint

Abstract

The large deployable antenna has continuously received research interest in space technology. The design of such large structure has certain inherent challenges, such as limited mass and volume because of the inadequate capabilities of launchers. This constraint affects different aspects, including shapes, dimensions, and stiffness requirements. This study explores a new large cable–rib deployable antenna structure with radial ribs and tensioned cables. This structure has the advantages of high stiffness/mass ratio, which is suitable for constructing large-scale deployable antennas. A structural optimization method with a dynamic constraint for the maximum stiffness/mass ratio is proposed; this method is based on structural design formulas and the dynamic model of the deployable antenna structure. A genetic algorithm is introduced for parameter optimization with frequency constraint. Numerical examples are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed optimization method. By using these analysis methods, a 1.8 m prototype is fabricated and tested. Afterward, the feasibility and dynamic characteristics of the proposed cable–rib tension deployable structure are validated.