Parabolic transformable reflector for CubeSat platform

CubeSat platform is used for creating small spacecrafts. Antennas for transmission of signals between the spacecraft and subscribers are inalienable parts of it. Different antenna configurations may be installed on a spacecraft depending on functions of their payload. Spacecrafts based on the CubeSat platform are equipped with transformable antennas with a drop-down reflector. There are several requirement to the construction of the reflector designed for operating via the CubSat platform: small volume in folded state; maximal aperture of a parabolic reflective surface in working position; ensuring the required accuracy characteristics of the reflective surface; simplicity of the opening mechanism and low weight. Usage of flexible swivel joints in the design of the antenna allows to create a simple and reliable opening mechanism and to provide the necessary rigidity of the structure and a small mass of the reflector. The paper proposes a new design of a transformable parabolic reflector for a spacecraft on the CubeSat platform. The main power element is a thin-walled torus shell with a reflector opening mechanism in the form of flexible hinges. A geometric analysis was carried out to determine the configuration of the reflector in the folded position. Modal analysis was completed to confirm that the required stiffness was achieved. Based on the analysis results, the design characteristics of the structure were selected that satisfy the condition of the minimum mass of the reflector. A technological process for manufacturing a reflector was developed, with the help of which the model of the structure was made. Reflector tests which were the transformation of the structure from the working position to the transport position and vice versa were carried out. The produced layout demonstrated the possibility of creating flight reflectors, the transform.