Dynamic modeling and analysis of a large-scale hoop-column antenna using the referenced nodal coordinate formulation

Hoop-column antenna (HCA) is a popular type of deployable antenna in aerospace engineering. Extracting a precise model and performing a comprehensive dynamic analysis is the foundation for ensuring the HCA works properly in complex space environments. However, the multiscale characteristics and strong nonlinearities make most modeling methods invalid because of low accuracy and efficiency. Dynamic modeling and analysis are conducted for HCA constructed by beams and cables using the referenced nodal coordinate formulation in this work. The straight and initially curved beam elements and pre-tensioned cable elements are introduced based on the absolute nodal coordinate formulation. The HCA is described in a non-inertial frame to separate the overall motion and deformations. The nonlinear dynamic equations of the HCA are firstly linearized around its tensioned equilibrium configuration and natural frequencies and mode shapes are analyzed. The symmetric and antisymmetric mode shapes are observed and corresponding characteristics are revealed. The mistuning ratio is introduced to study the mistuning properties. The nonlinear dynamic responses of the HCA for orbital transfer under finite thrust are simulated. The present work provides a general dynamic modeling approach for linear and nonlinear dynamic analysis of the HCA. The numerical results also provide some guidance for the parameter design and vibration control of the HCA.