TENTGUILD ENGINEERING CO — National Aeronautics and Space Administration SBIR Phase I: H5

Description

<p>Proposed is a new PV array architecture (featuring up to or beyond 1000-1500~m2 surface area) which can autonomously and repeatedly self-deploy into a disk-like configuration from a vertical Mars lander or other equipment, fully independent of terrain, while naturally achieving highly prioritized operational Mars mission objectives.&nbsp; The innovation offers an attractive alternative to other designs for which integration with launch vehicle and lander/habitat structures is less than seamless, cleaning, deployment, and environmental effects can be an operational bottleneck, and structural support may depend on the terrain. &nbsp;</p><p>The webbed array is a fundamentally new hierarchical tension-compression paradigm with a compression ring suspended from an elevated central platform with lanyards, and a network of catenaries and webbings connecting it to the hub.&nbsp; The webbings support the actual array surface which constructed of flexible PV surface strips.&nbsp; For stowage, the webbings, catenaries, and surface together wrap onto a rotating drum in the central hub, with the compression ring gradually collapsing and the suspension lanyards reeled in.&nbsp; Stowage is compact and holds the sensitive PV surface in the tight embrace of mechanical parts from all directions. &nbsp;</p><p>The surface structure is slack when deployed with cross-slopes and gaps for self-cleaning, which is further assisted by dynamical excitation by winds.&nbsp; Elevation above the terrain is natural.&nbsp; Integration with the piece of heavy base equipment anchors the array down to resist winds.&nbsp; Sun tracking is possible.&nbsp; Adaptive operation permits partial or full retraction when needed for protection or to control risks in special events (e.g., tornado / dust devil updraft). &nbsp;</p><p>Offered is a systematic mapping of the several new fronts opened by this technology, to identify technological needs and paving the way for further development and commercialization.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>