Thermal Compensating Subreflector Tracking Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reflector antennas face significant challenges due to thermal expansion and contraction caused by solar loads, leading to non-uniform deformation and defocusing effects that impact electrical performance, particularly in geosynchronous orbits, resulting in signal gain losses.
Innovation Solution
A subreflector tracking assembly with Z-axis movement capability, combined with X and Y-axis linear actuators and guides, is introduced to compensate for thermal defocusing, minimizing mechanical complexity and additional costs, utilizing a bellows for environmental protection and feedback sensors for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tracking mount with precision alignment capability is used to align the reflector antenna with the satellite, then the beam alignment accuracy is improved, but the cost and device complexity significantly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking function is segmented into two parts: a coarse tracking mount for major alignment and a fine-tracking mechanism for the subreflector that handles precision adjustments. This divides the alignment task between two components with different precision requirements, reducing the complexity of the main tracking mount while maintaining overall alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a third degree of freedom by enabling Z-axis movement of the subreflector in addition to the traditional X-Y plane adjustments. This additional dimensional capability allows for focus compensation and thermal defocusing correction, improving beam alignment accuracy without requiring higher precision from the primary tracking mount.
2Reliability
If the subreflector is moved along the Z-axis to compensate for thermal defocusing, then the electrical performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Z-axis focus adjustment mechanism is merged with the existing X-Y positioning system into a single integrated subreflector tracking assembly. This combination allows all three degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z) to be controlled through one coordinated mechanism rather than separate systems, minimizing additional complexity while enabling thermal defocusing compensation.
3Measurement precision
If orthogonal adjustments to the subreflector position are made to compensate for non-uniform thermal distortion, then the beam alignment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The subreflector tracking assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: coarse positioning, fine alignment adjustments, and thermal defocusing compensation. By making the subreflector mechanism universal and capable of handling all these functions, the invention eliminates the need for separate alignment assemblies, thereby improving beam alignment without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution effectively compensates for thermal defocusing effects, maintaining optimal beam alignment and focus, thereby reducing signal gain losses and improving electrical performance with minimal additional complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
A bellows may be coupled to a periphery of the base and the subreflector mount to provide environmental protection to an interior of the assembly
Implementation Method 2
thermal expansion and/or contraction of the reflector assembly and/or support apparatus
Implementation Method 3
thermal expansion and/or contraction of the reflector assembly and/or support apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal compensating subreflector tracking assembly for a reflector antenna and methods of use. The subreflector tracking assembly provided with a base, an intermediate support and a subreflector mount. The intermediate support coupled to the base, movable normal to the base and the subreflector mount coupled to the intermediate support, movable orthogonal to the intermediate support. The movement in the Z, Y and or Z-axis enabling electrical performance optimizing reflector antenna beam alignment and/or focus adjustments resulting from asymmetric thermal distortion of the reflector antenna.