A CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) support structure for a foldable solar sail intended for energy generation in space is being developed. The composite must be no thicker than 0.3 mm and must store sufficient strain energy to enable deployment. The self-deployment function must operate effectively within a temperature range of -60 ℃ to +120 ℃, and the CFRP structure must withstand temperatures ranging from -90 ℃ to +120 ℃. The foldability of the structure requires precise material characterization and accurate distribution of the two matrix materials, which are applied sequentially. The magnetic multi-matrix (MMM) process was developed to meet these requirements. This innovative manufacturing technique ensures the mechanical integrity and electrical performance of the solar cells. The combination of the process with specially selected materials is crucial to achieve a composite with optimal flexibility and stability. By integrating advanced materials and optimized production processes, an efficient and scalable solution for flexible solar energy applications in space is achieved. This technology can be utilized for many other applications where lightweight construction, multifunctionality, and reliability are critical and where folding or unfolding is advantageous.

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Foldable CFRP Structure for High-Power Solar Arrays for Nanosats

  • Julia Wallner,
  • Linmei Li,
  • Valentin Dalbauer,
  • Sebastian Kölbl

摘要

A CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) support structure for a foldable solar sail intended for energy generation in space is being developed. The composite must be no thicker than 0.3 mm and must store sufficient strain energy to enable deployment. The self-deployment function must operate effectively within a temperature range of -60 ℃ to +120 ℃, and the CFRP structure must withstand temperatures ranging from -90 ℃ to +120 ℃. The foldability of the structure requires precise material characterization and accurate distribution of the two matrix materials, which are applied sequentially. The magnetic multi-matrix (MMM) process was developed to meet these requirements. This innovative manufacturing technique ensures the mechanical integrity and electrical performance of the solar cells. The combination of the process with specially selected materials is crucial to achieve a composite with optimal flexibility and stability. By integrating advanced materials and optimized production processes, an efficient and scalable solution for flexible solar energy applications in space is achieved. This technology can be utilized for many other applications where lightweight construction, multifunctionality, and reliability are critical and where folding or unfolding is advantageous.