Investigation Testing of Structural Members of Large-sized Reconfigurable Spacecraft Antenna Reflectors

摘要

Objectives: The relevance of the article is associated with the need for large-sized reconfigurable reflectors to solve a number of problems in the field of navigation, telecommunications, and the study of other planets. The purpose of research is to assess the rationality of using carbon fiber power rod structure members and ropes made of polymeric materials in the reconfigurable antenna design, in terms of the reflective surface quality in space conditions. Methods: Investigative testing of power rod structure members to determine the CLTE is carried out in the climate chamber using strain gauges, which are glued to the sample surface. Structural test polymeric ropes were performed using deformometer and special grippers. Findings: This article describes testing of structural elements of large-sized reconfigurable spacecraft antenna reflectors. The description is given for the studied testing objects, the conditions under which the tests were conducted and the test equipment. The studies resulted in the determined CLTE of power rod elements made of carbon fiber plastic based on carbon threads and ECD-MD binder, and strength characteristics of the polymeric ropes made of Armos aramid fibers. The uniqueness of the research is in conducting tests for these combinations of composite materials. Improvements/Applications: In terms of practical significance, the research clearly indicates that these power rods and ropes are suitable for exploitation in the outer space as structural members of large-sized reconfigurable spacecraft antenna reflectors.