Optimization of a novel, bidirectional, double-ring, deployable mesh antenna with a super-large aperture

The development of large antennas deployable in space is particularly important. A mesh antenna would be ideal because of its high surface accuracy and storage ratio. Here, we develop a novel, double-ring, deployable mesh antenna, then perform mass evaluation and modal analyses. The antenna exhibited better stiffness and a greater storage ratio, compared with typical mesh antennas. However, the mass was excessive. To overcome this problem, we designed a lightweight 5-m truss antenna, then measured its stiffness and strength. We optimized the computer-aided design of a mesh antenna with a super-large aperture, and we performed form-finding analysis of the cable-net. The new antenna included bidirectional deployment and exhibited a greater storage ratio and stiffness, compared with the conventional AstroMesh antenna. The first-order natural frequency was twofold greater than that of the AstroMesh antenna. Our work will aid fabrication of antennas with super-large apertures.