초록 ▼

A reflector assembly for use in antennas or solar collectors in which light weight and high reflector surface shape accuracy are essential for maintaining desired RF or light reflection requirements. The assembly is provided with a rigid, deployable outer support rim and at least one curved frame ne

A reflector assembly for use in antennas or solar collectors in which light weight and high reflector surface shape accuracy are essential for maintaining desired RF or light reflection requirements. The assembly is provided with a rigid, deployable outer support rim and at least one curved frame net supported by the outer rim. The frame net may be formed of a network of intersecting bands extending across the surface. A reflective material is placed against the frame net. A load is applied to the frame net to form a concave surface. The assembly is collapsible for convenient delivery into space prior to deployment.

대표청구항 ▼

A reflector assembly having a deployed state and comprising, when in the deployed state; a support rim defining a peripheral edge around a longitudinal axis; at least one substantially inextensible support stratum defining a curved, generally dish-shaped contour within said peripheral edge, said sub

A reflector assembly having a deployed state and comprising, when in the deployed state; a support rim defining a peripheral edge around a longitudinal axis; at least one substantially inextensible support stratum defining a curved, generally dish-shaped contour within said peripheral edge, said substantially inextensible stratum comprising a first network of flexible, elongated members composed of substantially inextensible material and coupled to the peripheral edge of said support rim; a flexible, generally extensible reflector defining an electromagnetically reflective surface and an opposite surface, wherein one of said reflective surface and opposite surface is arranged to stretch over and conform to the shape of the curved, generally dish-shaped contour of said support stratum such that the reflective surface forms a curved, generally dish shape; at least one tensioner coupled to said support stratum to maintain the curved, generally dish-shaped contour of said support stratum.