Citation
Abstract
This article presents a new approach to the design of the planned NASA/JPL 34-m elevation-over-azimuth (Az-El) antenna structure at the Venus site (DSS-13). The new antenna structural configuration accommodates a large (2.44-m) beam waveguide (BWG) tube centrally routed through the reflector-alidade structure, a unique elevation wheel design, and an optimal structural geometry. The new design encompasses a “‘Cross-Box” elevation wheel-reflector base substructure that preserves homology while satisfying many constraints, such as structure weight, surface tolerance, stresses, natural frequency, and various functional constraints. The functional requirements are set to ensure that microwave performance at millimeter wavelengths is adequate. The new Cross-Box configuration was modeled, optimized, and found to satisfy all DSN HEF baseline antenna specifications. In addition, the new structure design was conceptualized and analyzed with an emphasis on preserving the structure envelope and keeping modifications relative to the HEF antennas to a minimum, thus enabling the transferability of the BWG technology for future retrofitting. Good performance results were obtained.
Details
- Volume
- 42-92
- Published
- February 15, 1988
- Pages
- 27–39
- File Size
- 582.0 KB