Multi-Point Suspension Design and Stability Analysis of a Scaled Hoop Truss Antenna Structure

This paper proposes a scaled model to investigate the dynamic characteristics and stability of a hoop truss antenna on the ground. First, the statically indeterminate equation for the multi-point suspension is established, along with the voltage of the suspension motor calculated. Then the transfer function of the system is theoretically established. The scaled model is established before and after suspension, and the static deformation and natural frequency of the system are obtained by calculation and measurement. There exist the shaking mode and nodding mode. Also, a vibration experiment is conducted for the system to obtain the vibration response. With this, the transfer function is identified by the system identification method, which appears to be of the second order, and the stability is analyzed through the zero pole diagram. The experiment results show that the first two frequencies are close before and after suspension. Moreover, the stability of the system can be judged by the open-loop transfer function. It is concluded that the vibration experimental data of the scaled model can be used as a reference for the large hoop truss antenna structure.