초록 ▼

A constrained solar array (24) for a satellite (20) and method for making the same are disclosed. The solar array (24) includes a superstructure (30) with solar cells (80) mounted thereon to provide power to a main satellite body (22) and instruments mounted thereon. A flexible tensile member (40) e

A constrained solar array (24) for a satellite (20) and method for making the same are disclosed. The solar array (24) includes a superstructure (30) with solar cells (80) mounted thereon to provide power to a main satellite body (22) and instruments mounted thereon. A flexible tensile member (40) extends relative to the superstructure (30) and is placed under tension to place the solar array (24) in a constrained condition which reduces thermal transients in and increases the bending frequency of the solar array (24). Preferably, a pair of support arms (34,36) are cantilevered from the superstructure (30). The flexible tensile member (40) pulls upon the support arms (34,36) to apply bending moments to the superstructure (30) to maintain the solar array (24) in a distorted shape. The method includes heating one surface of the solar array (24) to thermally deform or bow the solar array (24) and then constraining the bowed solar array using a flexible tensile member (40) to prevent the solar array (24) from returning to its original configuration when the heat is removed from the solar array (24) during an eclipse.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A satellite comprising:a main spacecraft body; anda solar array attached to the spacecraft body;the solar array including, a superstructure with a plurality of solar cells mounted relative to the superstructure and a tensioning member spanning and affixed relative to the

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A satellite comprising:a main spacecraft body; anda solar array attached to the spacecraft body;the solar array including, a superstructure with a plurality of solar cells mounted relative to the superstructure and a tensioning member spanning and affixed relative to the superstructure to constrain the superstructure in a distorted, bowed condition;a tensioning device affixed relative to the superstructure tensioning said tensioning member;said tensioning device comprising a take-up mechanism for taking up said tensioning member while preventing said tensioning member from feeding out from said tensioning device;said take-us mechanism having a spool upon which said tensioning member is wound; andsaid take-up mechanism having a ratchet and pawl for preventing the feeding out of said tensioning member from said tensioning device;wherein thermal snap phenomenon is reduced and the bending frequency of the solar array is increased.