Modal analysis of a spacecraft solar panel

Abstract

The importance of analyzing free modes of mechanical oscillations of spacecraft outboard elements is due to the problem of losing their controllability because of failures in the operation of airborne guidance and navigation systems. The subject of the study is the spacecraft solar panel that represents a frame with modules with photocells attached to it. The object of the study is mechanical oscillations of such a panel as a multi-mass compliance structure. The article presents a modal analysis carried out to determine the natural frequencies and forms of vibrations of the spacecraft solar panel. A finite element model of the panel was developed. In the paper, a modal calculation was carried out on the basis of the model. A test facility was developed to carry out full-scale tests. According to the experimental studies, the model was refined, which made it possible to obtain a discrepancy in the results of no more than 2.5 Hz.

Keywords

• modal analysis
• vibration
• solar panel
• natural frequency
• oscillation form
• modal tests
• mathematical model