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Shape-Reconfigurable Deployable Paraboloid Reflector Based on a 7R-8R Truss Network.

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Title: Shape-Reconfigurable Deployable Paraboloid Reflector Based on a 7R-8R Truss Network.
Authors: Wang, Tianshu1 (AUTHOR) tianshuw@tju.edu.cn, Gu, Yuanqing1 (AUTHOR) guyuanqing@tju.edu.cn, Chen, Yan1,2 (AUTHOR) yan_chen@tju.edu.cn
Source: Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering (KeAi Communications Co.). 7/17/2025, Vol. 38 Issue 1, p1-15. 15p.
Subjects: Paraboloid, Multi-objective optimization, Multi-degree of freedom, Astronautics, Trusses, Genetic algorithms
Abstract: Progressing beyond the stowage and deployment of reflectors and designing for multiple deployed states result in reflector shape reconfiguration, thus allowing for new functions including radiation pattern reconfiguration, and is valuable for space applications such as satellite-based radar and communications. This paper introduces a concept for achieving the deployment and shape reconfiguration of a paraboloid reflector using a 7R-8R (revolute joint) truss network. By realizing reconfigurability mechanically, complex electronic systems such as phased arrays can be avoided, and adopting a single-degree-of-freedom (DOF) design further reduces the number of required actuators. The proposed reflector is axisymmetric and can be doubly curved. It comprises a flexible mesh surface supported by a rigid truss network constructed from 7R and 8R linkages. Approximation of multiple target surfaces is achieved by synthesizing the truss network dimensions using a multiobjective optimization approach. The non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is used in conjunction with analytical dimension parameterization and forward kinematics computation to determine the optimal dimensions for the truss network. In the resulting designs, the reflector follows a single-DOF trajectory, on which it unfolds from a compact stowed bundle toward a deployed state approximating a doubly curved target surface, then onwards to additional deployed states approximating different target surfaces. Design studies are conducted to demonstrate the reflector's ability to approximate different target surfaces and continuously transform between such surfaces. This study proposes a new method for reconfiguring reflector shape mechanically, thus uniquely reconfiguring the shape of a doubly curved surface and achieving both deployment and shape reconfiguration under a unified single-DOF motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Progressing beyond the stowage and deployment of reflectors and designing for multiple deployed states result in reflector shape reconfiguration, thus allowing for new functions including radiation pattern reconfiguration, and is valuable for space applications such as satellite-based radar and communications. This paper introduces a concept for achieving the deployment and shape reconfiguration of a paraboloid reflector using a 7R-8R (revolute joint) truss network. By realizing reconfigurability mechanically, complex electronic systems such as phased arrays can be avoided, and adopting a single-degree-of-freedom (DOF) design further reduces the number of required actuators. The proposed reflector is axisymmetric and can be doubly curved. It comprises a flexible mesh surface supported by a rigid truss network constructed from 7R and 8R linkages. Approximation of multiple target surfaces is achieved by synthesizing the truss network dimensions using a multiobjective optimization approach. The non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is used in conjunction with analytical dimension parameterization and forward kinematics computation to determine the optimal dimensions for the truss network. In the resulting designs, the reflector follows a single-DOF trajectory, on which it unfolds from a compact stowed bundle toward a deployed state approximating a doubly curved target surface, then onwards to additional deployed states approximating different target surfaces. Design studies are conducted to demonstrate the reflector's ability to approximate different target surfaces and continuously transform between such surfaces. This study proposes a new method for reconfiguring reflector shape mechanically, thus uniquely reconfiguring the shape of a doubly curved surface and achieving both deployment and shape reconfiguration under a unified single-DOF motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:10009345
DOI:10.1186/s10033-025-01302-x