Configuration studies of an inflatable paraboloid reflector

Inflatable structures possess tremendous potential as antenna and reflective devices in aerospace applications. Their low weight and small packaging volume permit large diameter inflatable antennae in deployed configuration. This work deals with the configuration analysis of an inflated paraboloid reflector with kapton as the membrane material. The non-linear membrane element in the finite element analysis package, NASTRAN is used as the basic building block. Initially the analysis is carried out on a single circular flat membrane with circumferential edge support and the results are verified with that available in literature. Subsequently, two initially curved surface membranes are analysed together for different F/D ratios to obtain a paraboloid shape with circumferential edge support. A parametric study has been conducted for variations on initial curvature, arc length of support, thickness of the membrane and internal pressure. The surface RMS values, modal frequency and stress patterns are evaluated. Further, a convergence analysis is carried out to arrive at the optimal mesh size and the number of pressure load increments. This study brings out a configuration of an inflatable paraboloid reflector with considerably lesser mechanical complexity having with a potential for a possible usage in space applications.