Deployable boom for collecting electromagnetic energy

摘要

A retractable and re-deployable boom assembly is provided for collecting electromagnetic energy, for instance in outer space. The assembly may include a boom having a deployable length and a first layer comprising a flexible substrate formed in a lenticular shape that elastically deforms, and a second layer thereon comprising an array of electromagnetic transducers, which may be positioned on adjacent flexible parabolic reflectors. The assembly may be placed into at least two different configurations: a stowed configuration where the majority of the length is elastically deformed; and a deployed configuration where the majority of the length is not deformed, and where the lenticular shape of the boom provides it with rigidity. The assembly may also have a rotational drive mechanism.

主权项

1. An assembly for collecting electromagnetic energy comprising:
a boom having a deployable length and width, further comprising two layers: a first layer comprising a flexible substrate pre-formed in a lenticular shape and adapted to elastically deform; and a second layer bound to the first layer comprising an array of electromagnetic transducers; wherein the assembly comprises two configurations: a stowed configuration wherein the majority of the length is elastically deformed; and a deployed configuration wherein the majority of the length is not deformed, and when in the deployed configuration the substrate's lenticular shape provides rigidity across substantially the entire deployable length and width of the boom and the second layer of electromagnetic transducers provides rigidity to the boom; and a rotational drive mechanism wherein the drive mechanism assists in changing the configuration of the assembly.