Loading...
Deployable S-Band helix antenna compatible with the CubeSat standard
Author(s)
Daniels, Robert Christopher
Date Issued
2022
Type
Thesis
Publisher
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Abstract
CubeSats are becoming fundamental aspects of communications across the world.
Currently, limited antenna con gurations are utilised, mainly due to CubeSat size
restrictions present on available CubeSat form factors. These limited antenna con-
gurations often lead to the exclusion of the extra volume known as the "tuna-can",
which forms part of the CubeSat costs.
To combat this trend an S-band Quadri lar Helix Antenna is proposed. The
proposed antenna is mechanically designed by exploring shape memory alloys and
traditional spring approaches, to create an antenna deployment system, which is
safe and reliable, while meeting CubeSat platform communication needs.
The initial research showed that both the traditional spring and SMA approach
provided reliable antenna deployment solutions, however, due to material availabil-
ity and the lack of ability of the thinner SMA wire to retain its shape, the traditional
spring approach was successfully developed. The developed spring QHA reliably
deploys, however vibrational tests are recommended.
The antenna successfully deploys and therefore o ers alternative means for com-
munication on the CubeSat platform. This allows the available CubeSat platform
volume and surface area to be utilised more e ciently, thus creating the opportunity
for additional payloads or technology demonstration to commence.
Currently, limited antenna con gurations are utilised, mainly due to CubeSat size
restrictions present on available CubeSat form factors. These limited antenna con-
gurations often lead to the exclusion of the extra volume known as the "tuna-can",
which forms part of the CubeSat costs.
To combat this trend an S-band Quadri lar Helix Antenna is proposed. The
proposed antenna is mechanically designed by exploring shape memory alloys and
traditional spring approaches, to create an antenna deployment system, which is
safe and reliable, while meeting CubeSat platform communication needs.
The initial research showed that both the traditional spring and SMA approach
provided reliable antenna deployment solutions, however, due to material availabil-
ity and the lack of ability of the thinner SMA wire to retain its shape, the traditional
spring approach was successfully developed. The developed spring QHA reliably
deploys, however vibrational tests are recommended.
The antenna successfully deploys and therefore o ers alternative means for com-
munication on the CubeSat platform. This allows the available CubeSat platform
volume and surface area to be utilised more e ciently, thus creating the opportunity
for additional payloads or technology demonstration to commence.
Additional information
Thesis (MEng (Satellite Systems & Applications))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2022
Subjects
File(s)![Thumbnail Image]()
Loading...
Name
Daniels_Robert_214307654.pdf
Size
15.22 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum
(MD5):174faba90f11398531f9c96906d46e0a