Complex energy supply in radar system for space observation

GESTRA is a project by 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-chain® from igus® for the high-precision three-axis positioning system: a rotary energy supply system is used on the azimuth axis and a double chain system on both sides of the elevation axis. They ensure a reliable energy supply and the clean guidance of various media lines in a confined space.

Profile

What was needed: Three-axis positioning system
Requirement: System with swivelling angle of over 400°, compact solution for tight installation space
Industry: Aerospace, space travel
Success for the customer**:** e-chain systems on the azimuth and elevation axis guide the various media lines safely in the tightest of spaces. E-chain® from the E4.56 series with reverse bend radius are used, with chain combs providing the necessary strain relief.

The application was honoured with the silver vector Award in 2020.

e-chain® E4.56
robust, low-noise, modular: the 56 mm high version of our e-chain series E4.1

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Reverse Bend Radius rotating energy supply

rotating energy supply
The modular system for rotating applications with up to 540° rotation angle

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Problem:

The GESTRA radar system (German Experimental Space Surveillance and Tracking Radar) consists, among other things, of a transmitter and receiver system consisting of 256 individually electronically controlled antennas and receiver units. AlpinaTec had the task of developing a high-precision three-axis positioning system for both the transmitter and the receiver, with electrically tensioned and clearance-free drives as well as corresponding cable and supply paths. The compact energy supply was one of the major challenges in this project due to the tight construction volume, the complexity and degrees of freedom of the axis arrangement and the variety of media and signals to be conducted and the resulting "diversity" of hoses and cables.

Solution:

Taking into account the limited space available so as not to collide with the outer shell, the tilting axle "Elevation" was equipped with a compact double chain system on both sides, which contains two interlocking vertical hanging e-chain® der Serie E4.56 running into each other. The entire system can cope with the changing gravity conditions - a decisive criterion. A complex "Reverse Bend Radius" solution including a so-called floating island was developed and realised for the vertical standing azimuth axis with a horizontal rotation angle of 430°. E4.56 chains are also installed here: four pieces, sideways with reverse bend radius, equipped with strain reliefs (article no. 3250.ZB).