Abstract
The growing needs in telecommunications require the development of large parabolic reflectors. A new conceptual design for the architecture of a deployable antenna is therefore proposed in partnership with the CNES. The design of its framework is based on a review of solutions which leads to scissor mechanisms associated with flexible joints. Numerical modelings with finite elements are first developed to simulate the deployment by the release of the energy stored in the joints after the folding. An experimental prototype with a gravity compensation device is then realized. Tests and measurements are performed to characterize the static and dynamic behavior and compared with the results of simulations. Shaping of the reflective surface by a net of cables is then studied. A new form-finding method for obtaining a net with a uniform tension is then proposed. It is applied to different parabolic typologies of nets and the error due to surface faceting is evaluated. The process of net attachment on the antenna rim structure is also treated.