Modal behavior of a new large reflector conceptual design

A new conceptual design for the architecture of a large deployable space reflector is presented. The reflective parabolic surface is made of a mesh shaped by a cable net and the supporting rim structure is based on scissor mechanisms associated with flexible joints. These joints replace complex articulations while allowing the storage of the energy required for deployment. They also affect the stiffness of the structure and the tension of the cable net. The dynamic behavior was studied by finite element modeling and through tests on an experimental prototype with a gravity compensation device. We focused on the first natural mode, which is an important design criterion for space applications. The measurements are compared to simulation results and we discuss the influence of suspension threads and gravity in the model.