초록 ▼

Apparatuses, methods and systems for mesh integration and tension control, mesh retention, and mesh management of mesh-type deployable reflectors. The mesh members are comprised of a plurality of wedge-shaped gore members, each of which are pre-tensioned initially utilizing double-sided tape in a te

Apparatuses, methods and systems for mesh integration and tension control, mesh retention, and mesh management of mesh-type deployable reflectors. The mesh members are comprised of a plurality of wedge-shaped gore members, each of which are pre-tensioned initially utilizing double-sided tape in a temporary manner prior to final stitching. String-like chord catenary members are positioned in pockets formed on the outer end of the gore members. The mesh member is attached to a ribbed reflector frame structure through a plurality of nodal assembly mechanisms. The nodal assemblies have spring biasing members for tensioning radial and transverse chord members along the reflector surface. A plurality of string-like members positioned in washers on the mesh member are used to maintain a tension field in the mesh member when the reflector is in its collapsed and stowed condition. Pivotally mounted rack members are used to releasably hold the string-like members and thus the mesh member under tension when the reflector is in its collapsed and stowed condition. The rack members are automatically released as the reflector deployment commences, freeing the mesh for deployment.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A method for attaching a mesh member to a ribbed reflector frame structure, said mesh member comprising a plurality of trapezoidal substantially planar facet members with corners, the method comprising the steps of:positioning said mesh member on said ribbed frame structure; positioning a nodal a

1. A method for attaching a mesh member to a ribbed reflector frame structure, said mesh member comprising a plurality of trapezoidal substantially planar facet members with corners, the method comprising the steps of:positioning said mesh member on said ribbed frame structure; positioning a nodal assembly member at the comer of each facet member, each of said nodal assembly members having a biasing member; attaching each of said nodal assembly members through said mesh member to said frame structure; positioning chord members between each pair of adjacent nodal assembly members; and tensioning said chord members with said biasing members in said nodal assembly members.