Analytical kinematics and trajectory planning of large scale hexagonal modular mesh deployable antenna

School of Aeronautics Science & Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, Haidian District, China

Abstract

This investigation aims to analyze the forward kinematics and deployment path of large scale hexagonal modular mesh deployable space antenna employing analytical procedure. At first a comprehensive review of technical contributions from 1987 to date in this class of antenna is completed and least targeted areas are extracted. Based on shortcomings a new design of modular antenna is proposed that has an aperture diameter of 13 meters and is composed of seven modules. Each module possesses an aperture of more than 6 meters and consists of 6 ribs arranged in radial pattern around the central beam. In order to ensure that the antenna will deploy successfully in space conditions, feasibility of design & its stability during deployment; analytical investigation into kinematics & antenna trajectory is carried out using loop closure equations and homogeneous coordinate transformation method. The concept of virtual link is introduced to develop formulations that will help to determine position, velocity and acceleration of each revolute joint in the rib with any small increment in linear motion of slider from top to bottom of central beam. The proposed solution techniques will help to replace time consuming and costly iterations for design, build more economical structure, reduce antenna manufacture time and reduce weight leading to reduced launch as well as experimentation costs before launch.