Host: The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers
Name : [in Japanese]
Date : December 06, 2024 - December 07, 2024
In recent years, the design and performance of solar array paddles have become vital due to the increasing complexity of space missions. These paddles supply essential power for satellite operations, requiring high power generation capacity. Performance is evaluated using specific power (W/kg) and economic efficiency (W/$). To meet these demands, a new paddle structure incorporating concave-curved thin-film solar cells with STEM structures and cables has been proposed. This design enhances power generation through multiple sunlight reflections using mirrors, reduces solar cell attachment area, and maintains roll-up storability for economic efficiency. Traditional studies focused on two-dimensional sunlight incidence, but this research explores a three-dimensional approach, analyzing light behavior in detail using Monte Carlo ray tracing simulations. This method models numerous sunlight rays, accounting for interactions like reflection, refraction, and absorption. The simulation results were verified against Thermal Desktop software, which also uses Monte Carlo methods. However, parameter optimization remains a challenge. This study demonstrates the potential to meet future satellite power demands by incorporating three-dimensional light interaction characteristics. Future efforts will focus on improving simulation accuracy and optimizing design parameters to further enhance power generation efficiency.
