Satellite Antenna Sensor Calibration via Software Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Satellite tracking antennas experience errors between the angles calculated by tracking and stabilization algorithms and those indicated by encoder and gyroscope sensors, requiring accurate calibration to achieve high tracking accuracy without incurring additional costs through mechanical devices.
Innovation Solution
A method involving software calibration steps for elevation and azimuth encoders, and gyroscope calibration, where the sensors' angles are adjusted to match the calculated angles using specific positioning and measurement techniques, eliminating the need for additional mechanical tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical calibration devices are used to calibrate sensor angles, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical calibration devices with a software-based calibration method that uses the antenna's own tracking and stabilization algorithms. The calibration is achieved through computational processing of sensor data rather than physical measurement instruments, eliminating the need for additional mechanical equipment while maintaining calibration accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system performs its own calibration using its existing sensors, motors, and control algorithms. The tracking and stabilization algorithms that are already part of the system are utilized to calculate reference angles, making the system self-calibrating without requiring external calibration devices or additional hardware.
2Measurement precision
If additional measurement devices are installed for calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing sensors and control algorithms serve multiple functions: they are used both for normal tracking operations and for calibration purposes. The elevation and azimuth sensors, along with the tracking algorithm, are universally applied to both operational tracking and calibration processes, eliminating the need for dedicated calibration equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing components for calibration rather than requiring external devices. The antenna's built-in sensors and control system perform the calibration function, making the system self-sufficient and avoiding additional equipment costs.
3Reliability
If tracking accuracy is increased to 0.1°, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision requirements become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration process uses feedback from the tracking algorithm's calculated angles to adjust and correct sensor readings. The system continuously compares sensor-measured angles with algorithm-calculated reference angles and applies correction values to minimize errors, enabling high tracking accuracy through iterative refinement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation by introducing calibration correction values that adjust the relationship between sensor readings and actual angles. By modifying the angle parameters through software correction rather than requiring ultra-precise physical measurements, the system achieves high accuracy with standard components.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for calibrating an orientation angle of a rotatable satellite tracking antenna, while changing an elevation angle or an azimuth, includes an elevation encoder calibrating step of setting a value of an elevation encoder measuring an elevation angle of the satellite tracking antenna to zero when an orientation direction of the satellite tracking antenna is parallel to one surface, an azimuth encoder calibrating step of setting a value of an azimuth encoder measuring an azimuth of the satellite tracking antenna to zero when an orientation direction of the satellite tracking antenna is parallel to one direction, and a gyroscope calibrating step of performing calibration such that one axis included in a gyroscope measuring a rotation angular velocity of the satellite tracking antenna is parallel to an azimuth rotation axis of the satellite tracking antenna and the other is parallel to an elevation rotation axis of the satellite tracking antenna.