Abstract: In order to solve the problem that it is difficult to analyze the coupling dynamics between the release movement of cable and the deployment movement of hoop truss in the process of a deployable rod cable antenna, the nonlinear Euler beam element and the geometric precise beam theory are used to model the cable and hoop respectively, then the multi body system model of the rod cable antenna is proposed. The accurate simulation of the coupling dynamics between the release movement of cable and the deployment of hoop truss is realized, and the mechanism of the cable flexibility and other factors that hinder the hoop truss extension is revealed. The simulation results show that in the deployment process of the rod cable antenna, reducing the modulus and diameter of the cable, and adopting the single cable distribution design are conducive to improving the deployment stability of the truss. In addition, cable flexibility has the most significant influence on the middle stage of truss deployment. The analysis results provide guidance for the dynamic prediction and optimization design of on orbit deployment of rod cable antenna.

Key words: Rod cable antenna, Cable release, Hoop deployment, Coupling dynamics, Simulation