Engineering topics

Wade, W. D.

Publications and source records attributed to Wade, W. D..

4 records

NASA NTRS1981

The technology development methodology for a class of large diameter spaceborne deployable antennas

The application of thermally stable graphite epoxy materials in flexure is discussed and deployment mechanism designs that are adaptable to both the proof of concept and the full scale 100 meter system with no modification to the basic concept are presented. The ground deployment test techniques and mechanisms developed for ground demonstration and evaluation of large size antenna structures are presented to illustrate the complexities involved in supporting antenna structural elements in excess of 25 meters in length.

Wade, W. D.↗

NASA NTRS1979

Study of wrap-rib antenna design

The results of a parametric design study conducted to develop the significant characteristics and technology limitations of space deployable antenna systems with aperture sizes ranging from 50 up to 300 m and F/D ratios between 0.5 and 3.0 are presented. Wrap/rib type reflectors of both the prime and offset fed geometry and associated feed support structures were considered. The significant constraints investigated as limitations on achievable aperture were inherent manufacturability, orbit dynamic and thermal stability, antenna weight, and antenna stowed volume. A data base, resulting in the defined maximum achievable aperture size as a function of diameter, frequency and estimated cost, was formed.

Wade, W. D.↗

NASA NTRS1979

On the design of an adjustable high precision latching hinge

The design and test details of a high precision hinge and locking mechanism created principally in support of the Lockheed space deployable Flexrib Parabolic Antenna concept are presented. These developed improvements in the detail design of ultra-precise rib hinge and contour adjustment mechanisms will allow radio frequency antenna reflectors to expand into the 15-50 meter diameter size class and to support the .013 mm. deployment repeatability tolerance required to support the 12+ GHz frequency range.

Ribble, J. W.↗

NASA NTRS1972

Space station high gain antenna concept definition and technology development

The layout of a technology base is reported from which a mechanically gimballed, directional antenna can be developed to support a manned space station proposed for the late 1970's. The effort includes the concept definition for the antenna assembly, an evaluation of available technology, the design of critical subassemblies and the design of critical subassembly tests.

Wade, W. D.↗