Gravity Unloading Method of Membrane Phased-array Antennas Using Electrostatic Adsorption

In this study, a gravity unloading method based on electrostatic adsorption is proposed to address the issue of large flexibility in membrane phased-array antennas. Through considering the gravity distribution of the antenna and the edge effect of the electrode system, the unloading efficiency and system robustness are improved using a grouping strategy and size optimization. The deformation equilibrium equation under both gravity and electrostatic fields is established, and the voltage optimization model of the electrode system is also formulated with the goal of complete compensation for gravity deformation. The advantages and effectiveness of the proposed method are demonstrated by comparing simulation and unloading experiment results with those obtained using the suspension method. Both results indicate that the electrostatic unloading method can achieve the same unloading effect as the suspension method. Moreover, without introducing in-plane deformations during unloading, this method enhances accuracy and provides valuable insights for optimizing the assembly and testing processes.