Title :
A reconfigurable mesh reflector antenna
Author :
Clarricoats, P.J.B. ; Hai, Z ; Brown, R.C. ; Poulton, G.T. ; Crone, G.E.
Author_Institution :
London Univ., UK
Abstract :
Describes a novel method for controlling the coverage pattern of a spacecraft antenna. An offset mesh reflector is proposed with reconfiguration achieved by means of adjustment to forces applied at control points on the reflector surface. Synthesis software has been developed and this is demonstrated for typical regional coverage patterns. A model of the mesh based on a network of springs is used and this has been successfully verified following precision mechanical measurements using an 85 cm diameter reflector. Gold-plated molybdenum mesh has been chosen so that the antenna can be tested electrically at a frequency of 10 GHz
Keywords :
antenna radiation patterns; antenna reflectors; reflector antennas; satellite antennas; 10 GHz; SHF; coverage pattern; offset mesh reflector; precision mechanical measurements; reconfigurable mesh reflector antenna; spacecraft antenna; synthesis software; typical regional coverage patterns;
Conference_Titel :
Antennas and Propagation, 1989. ICAP 89., Sixth International Conference on (Conf. Publ. No.301)
Conference_Location :
Coventry
