Investigation on Dimensional Scaling and Anchor Points Analysis of the Planar Membrane Reflector

Abstract

For the satellite antenna, a large aperture reflector is a contemporary need for space agencies worldwide. The space-borne membrane structures are the promising solution for the compact and lightweight reflector antenna. The objective of the study is to investigate the effect of dimension scaling on tension force with different anchor point configurations of the rectangular membrane reflector. The study also aims towards the development of the generalized tension force relation for the scaled dimensions of planar membrane reflectors. The numerical and experimental investigation for loading analysis of membrane reflector with different scale sizes and anchor point configurations is carried out. The study presents the novel equation for average diagonal stresses with different anchor points configurations of membrane reflector. The numerical results of loading analysis are found consistent with the experimental outcomes. Based on the results, the novel trend-line equation between the tension force and the scaling factor is developed. From the developed trend-line equation, the tension force can be directly calculated for any size of a reflector. The relation between the number of anchor points and the size of the reflector is discussed. The findings of this research provide insights to a novel relation for average diagonal stresses and tension force trend-line equations that can be implemented to any scaled sizes of the rectangular membrane reflector.