Method of achievement the high accuracy of the shape of reflectors of mirror antennas of spacecraft

Abstract

Analysis of conditions, which are required for mirror antennas of spacecrafts destined for transmission of high-frequent radio signals, is done in this paper. These conditions are regarded to resistance and rigidity of the construction features of the material of an antenna’s reflector and its surface’s quality. It is mentioned that the requirements to the accuracy of the reflector’s shape grow together with the frequency of a radio signal. Altogether, the existing constructions of antennas and the producing technologies are not capable to obtain those requirements. The innovative method of controlling the shape of a reflector of a mirror antenna is presented in the paper. Its application gives an opportunity to produce constructions with a highly accurate surface. This method deals with the fact that the required accuracy of a reflector can be achieved via elastic deformation of its shell. Design of the regulating units for different types of reflectors is developed. We propose an algorithm of choosing the number of the regulating units and their locations. This algorithm uses the results of finite-element modal analysis of a reflector’s shell. Innovative design of axisymmetric and offset reflectors which shell’s shape can arise from controlled deformation is developed. We also suggest the design of the reflector’s shell with a timber with regulating units on it. Such design provides an opportunity to significantly decrease the number of the regulating units. Project of the reflector with a timber and console rods possessing low mass and high stiffness is developed. Method of achievement the high accuracy of a reflector, presented in the paper, can be applied to design of new space antennas operating in high-frequency interval.