Authors:

Adina Ioana Margineantu

Date Created:

Not specified

Course Title:

Professor:

Not specified

About Paper:

Parabolic antennas allow humans to receive signals over large distances and have applications in satellite and wireless communications, radar systems, radio astronomy, and remote sensing. The incoming electromagnetic waves are directed onto the focal point of the paraboloid due to the geometric properties of the concave reflector. Currently, parabolic antennas are only compatible with the frequency ranges that they are designed for, not giving the users much flexibility. Due to their rigidity and weight, they are also costly and difficult to deploy into space. This research aims to design a reconfigurable parabolic antenna that uses the properties of origami patterns to be dynamic in signal coverage. Varying tessellations of the conical Kresling pattern demonstrate ways to build an approximate foldable parabola that can be opened when rotated or pushed downwards. By layering two or more conical Kresling patterns, that can fold independently of one another, a single antenna can receive signal from a variety of geographic areas and distances. The antenna is intended to be constructed from aluminum mesh so that it can be easily folded, lightweight, and more easily sent to space. This research lays the groundwork for future designs of parabolic antennas that can be customized for the needed frequency and signal range. Keywords: Aerospace; Origami; Reconfigurable; Design; Antenna

Source:

Purdue University / 2025

Topics:

No topics listed

Co-authors:

Adina Ioana Margineantu