SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1974
STP35513S

Developments of a Unique Graphite/Epoxy Antenna Subreflector

Source

Advanced concepts for large, furlable space antennas have led to an extensive development program at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) with configurations utilizing conical main reflectors. The antenna subreflectors for these conical configurations have unusual geometries and new structural requirements. Structural efficiency of the conical antennas is improved through the use of fiber composites and, as part of JPL's development program, a subreflector was designed and fabricated with graphite/epoxy material. This was sized to fit a subscale, 6-ft-diameter model. The subreflector is a cylindrical paraboloid with demanding criteria for contour surface precision, high thermal stability, and sufficient structural capacity for inertial launch loads in axial and transverse directions (12 to 18 g). In addition, dynamic launch environments impose constraints on allowable natural frequencies. This application presents broad design requirements and novel fabrication constraints. The paper describes the design, analysis, and fabrication of the subreflector.

Author Information

Robinson, EY
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif
Stonier, RA
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif
Lofgren, CL
The Boeing Company Aerospace Group, Seattle, Wash.
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Details
Developed by Committee: D30
Pages: 632–650
DOI: 10.1520/STP35513S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4639-6
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0308-5