Complex energy supply in radar system for space observation
"GESTRA" is a project of the Fraunhofer Institute: a specially developed, radar-based system for searching and mapping space debris. The development partner AlpinaTec GmbH from Austria relies on e-chains from igus for the high-precision three-axis positioning system: a rotating energy supply system is used on the azimuth axis and a double chain system from both sides on the elevation axis. They ensure reliable energy supply and the smooth guidance of a wide variety of media cables in a confined space.
Profile
- What was needed: three-axis positioning system
- Requirement: system with pivoting angle of over 400°, compact solution for tight installation spaces
- Industry: aerospace, space travel
- Success for the customer: e-chain systems on the azimuth and elevation axis guide the various media cables safely in the tightest of spaces. E4.56 series e-chains with a reverse bend radius are used; chain combs provide the necessary strain relief.
E4.56 e-chain
Robust, quiet, modular: the 56mm high version of our e-chain series E4.1More information in the shop
Rotating energy supply
The modular system for rotating applications with a rotation angle of up to 540°Discover now
Problem:
The GESTRA (German Experimental Space Surveillance and Tracking Radar) radar system consists of a transmitter and receiver system comprising 256 individually electronically controlled antennas and receiver units. It was AlpinaTec's task to develop a high-precision three-axis positioning system for both the transmitter and the receiver, with electrically tensioned and clearance-free drives in addition to corresponding cable and supply paths. The small installation space, the complexity and degrees of freedom of the axis arrangement as well as the variety of media and signals to be guided resulted in a great diversity of hoses and cables. Therefore, the compact energy supply system was one of the biggest challenges in this project.Solution:
Taking into account the limited space available and so as not to collide with the outer shell, the tilting axis "Elevation" was equipped with a compact double chain system on both sides containing two vertical hanging e-chains from the E4.56 series. The whole system is able to cope with changing gravity conditions, which is a decisive factor. For the vertical standing azimuth axis with a horizontal rotation angle of 430°, a complex [Link pagenr="2899" title=""RBR" solution"] including a so-called floating island was developed and realised. The four lateral E4.56 chains installed here have reverse bend radii (RBR) and are equipped with strain reliefs (part no. 3250.ZB).
