Transformable reflector structure with V-folding rods

Abstract

A new design of space deployable reflector is presented. In particular, we consider closed-chain system (with central network), which as a result of transformation reaches the conical shape. In conformity with the technical specifications, individual parts of the system perform the simultaneous motion in the radial and axial directions. The main motion of the system produced by geometric constraints is studied, i.e., we consider the degree of structural motion. Parametric degrees of freedom caused by technological errors, modes of motion, types of load or deployment velocity are not taken into consideration at this stage. A peculiar feature of the deployable structure presented in the paper is that, as compared with analogous structures, for connecting the sections with one another there is no need of using synchronization devices in both—upper and lower kinematic chains simultaneously. This structural mechanism is a differential lever mechanism, the driving elements of which enable us to obtain the desired law of motion of every characteristic link. The kinematic model represents the whole system. Therefore, we can construct the function of position of the lever mechanism and also the kinematic functions of transmission. For the preliminary investigation of the structure and making possible changes in it, two mathematical models have been constructed by means of the ANSYS software using the Ansys Parametric Design Language. The degrees of freedom of the hinges are simulated in local coordinate systems and are as much as possible approximated to the real model. Calculations are performed for various kinds of loads and appropriate results are obtained.