Deployable helical antenna stowage in a compact retracted configuration

摘要

A compressible and deployable antenna includes a top and a bottom plate. A deployable structure is fitted between the plates which can forcibly separate the plates, and place in tension a plurality of foldable unstretchable cords to provide a rigid antenna structure. An antenna conductor is connected to the plates and is coiled around the structure in a helical shape so its convolutions can be brought closer to one another for stowage, and spaced farther apart in deployment.