Active adjustment of space-borne cable-net antenna via a two-way shape memory alloy spring. (1st March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Jiacheng; Zhang, Yiqun; He, Yongxi; Yang, Dongwu; Sun, Zihan; Xiong, Jichuan; Yang, Jianli
• Is Part Of: Smart materials and structures. Volume 32:Number 3(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-03-01
• Subjects: shape memory alloy -- active adjustment -- surface accuracy -- cable-net antenna -- electro-thermo-mechanical model; Smart materials -- Periodicals; Strucural design -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-665X/acb306
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0964-1726

Abstract

Abstract: In extreme space environments with alternating and uneven temperature variations, the surface accuracy of cable-net antennas deteriorates significantly, thereby inducing a periodic failure or a significant deviation in the electrical performance. This is because of the lack of effective methods for controlling the surface shape during the service of the cable-net antenna. In this study, a method based on 'two-way memory spring' is proposed to actively control the surface of a cable-net antenna. Herein, first, an electro-thermo-mechanical model of the shape memory alloy (SMA) spring is deduced by combining the intrinsic model of the two-way shape memory effect and the resistance property of the SMA. Subsequently, a principle prototype is developed, and experiments related to active control are conducted to confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.