A lightweight tile structure integrating photovoltaic conversion and RF power transfer for space solar power applications

Abstract

We demonstrate the development of a prototype lightweight (1.5 kg/m 2 ) tile structure capable of photovoltaic solar power capture, conversion to radio frequency power, and transmission through antennas.This modular tile can be repeated over an arbitrary area to form a large aperture which could be placed in orbit to collect sunlight and transmit electricity to any location.Prototype design is described and validated through finite element analysis, and high-precision ultra-light component manufacture and robust assembly are described.