Self-erecting shapes
| DWPI Title: Corner reflector for self-erecting solar array used in e.g. satellite has flexible conductive weaves, each attached to at least two shape-memory components, used for returning to original shape when compressive force is removed |
| Abstract: Technologies for making self-erecting structures are described herein. An exemplary self-erecting structure comprises a plurality of shape-memory members that connect two or more hub components. When forces are applied to the self-erecting structure, the shape-memory members can deform, and when the forces are removed the shape-memory members can return to their original pre-deformation shape, allowing the self-erecting structure to return to its own original shape under its own power. A shape of the self-erecting structure depends on a spatial orientation of the hub components, and a relative orientation of the shape-memory members, which in turn depends on an orientation of joining of the shape-memory members with the hub components. |
| Use: Corner reflector for self-erecting solar array used in e.g. satellite. Can also be used in spacecraft, probe, emergency maritime use. |
| Advantage: Exhibits super elasticity, which allows corner reflector to return to original shape after a force causing deformation is removed. Enables to be constrained to occupy a smaller or different shape than its deployed shape, thus allowing easy storage. |
| Novelty: The corner reflector has flexible conductive weaves, each attached to at least two shape-memory components (118,120,122,124,126,128,1130,132,134,136,138,140) and form faces of the corner reflector when the corner reflector is in original shape. The electromagnetic waves are reflected to the sources of the electromagnetic waves when in original shape. The corner reflector deforms when compressive force is applied, while returns to original shape when compressive force is removed and when no external force is applied. |
| Filed: 5/16/2016 |
| Application Number: US15156132A |
| Tech ID: SD 13454.1 |
| This invention was made with Government support under Contract No. DE-NA0003525 awarded by the United States Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration. The Government has certain rights in the invention. |
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