Satellite & Radar Automation
Introduction: Satellite & Radar Automation, what are the requirements?
At MCP, we’ve been involved with numerous Satellite and Radar automation projects and we’ve seen how our sophisticated products can create solutions to this demanding industry. Although there are a huge number of different types of satellite dishes and radar control systems, a number of common characteristics can be drawn out. These requirements need to be met stringently.
- Systems need to be in motion, sometimes continuously, generally at low speeds with no backlash. Our harmonic actuators and frameless motors are great solutions for this.
- Where continuous rotation is required, data needs to be transferred to and from the equipment. Our slip rings are a proven technology for doing this.
- Feedback is needed on position of assemblies. We supply a wide range of encoders for this with highly configurable specifications for different environments and approvals required.
- Sophisticated servo drives, optimised for difficult working environments and high levels of reliability offer a robust technology to control movement
Satellite Communications
In common satellite communications, radio signals are typically transmitted by a ground antenna pointed at space and are relayed by satellites orbiting high above our atmosphere and received in locations across the globe back on earth. A rise in applications taking advantage of the low cost and high signal bandwidth availability of ‘Low Earth Orbit’ or LEO satellite constellations are shaping the demands of an antenna pointing system. The higher bandwidth comes from being closer – and that’s much closer, and users are starting to expect high data transfer speeds. The need for a constellation, which simply means a large number of satellites, is because, being closer, they are visible for shorter period.
We have been involved with Satcom at sea devices. These are sophisticated devices, which have tight space constraints required to fit into smaller vessels. They are operating in potentially wet environments and are operating in highly unstable environments – vessels at sea don’t sit still.
Satcom-at-sea devices, Automated Positioning System or APSs, which also stand for Antenna Pointing Systems, are compact and lightweight pointing systems mounted into VSAR’s or velocity synthetic aperture radars, with very small aperture terminals, aboard maritime vessels. When placed in wet environments such systems are susceptible to motion induced antenna pointing errors and require stabilised control of the servo driven
Antenna Control
Very high accuracy and stability are required to maintain the required control over antenna systems. Some systems have to image lock with a satellite. Very specific compliance standards are often required. Additionally, systems with a high level of emissions usually require high levels of EMC shielding to protect electronics and ultimately to protect people.
Examples of radar antenna applications include airborne antennas, mobile and portable panels, SATCOM antennas, maritime SATCOM antennas, gimbal antennas, radar applications and turntables, satellite MEO, LEO, GEO & HEO terminal, and payload antennas.
In radar and antenna applications, resolvers are often used to ensure signal integrity. Resolver interfaces are available on some servo drives. Interfaces to standard AqB incremental encoder, and SI or BiSS-C absolute encoder, are also provided for applications requiring higher resolution.
What can MCP do?
At Motion Control Products, our extensive experience with Satellite and Radar automation projects has shown that sophisticated, reliable, and precise components are essential for meeting the demanding requirements of this industry. Our products are designed to meet stringent compliance standards and provide high levels of EMC shielding, making them ideal for a variety of applications, from SATCOM antennas to radar systems, both on land and at sea.
Among the products we supply for the Satellite and Radar Communication Automation markets are:
Harmonic Actuators:
Due to their high precision, smooth movement and stability, our harmonic actuators are ideal for this industry. They feature back-lash free gearboxes, ideal for precise positioning. (Find out more...)
Frameless Motors:
Our frameless motors integrate seamlessly into machines. They are supplied as separate rotors and stators. Available in diameters from 65mm to 410mm, they offer up to 70Nm torque with large through holes for cable management. (Find out more...)
Sliprings:
Our slip rings offer ultra-precision, low noise, and smooth rotation, with long lifespans and waterproof options, making them ideal for satellite communication and radar automation. We can provide six types of slip rings tailored to meet specific customer needs featuring protection to IP65. (Find out more...)
Encoders:
We offer an extensive range of encoders that provide the accuracy and resolution required for this demanding market. These encoders are suitable for harsh environments. Our selection includes both rotary and linear encoders, available in various types such as optical, magnetic, capacitive, and inductive, all utilising the latest technologies. This makes them ideal for applications in satellite and radar automation. (Find out more...)
Servo Drives:
Our servo drives offer high response and precise positioning. They feature a wide range of power options and support industry-standard control and communication protocols, such as CANOpen, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus RTU, Profibus, and RS485. They are available in standalone, PCB-mounted, or panel-mounted configurations, with an optional STO SIL3 (Safe Torque Off) function. (Find out more...)
The Full Solution & Customisation:
We always integrate our different offerings to create a coherent overall solution and customisation for our customers' applications. Do speak to us about your needs, and we will work with you.
At MCP, our deep involvement in Satellite and Radar automation projects has highlighted the industry's need for high-precision, reliable solutions that can withstand demanding environments. Our expertise in this sector enables us to provide components that meet stringent operational requirements, ensuring optimal performance in applications ranging from SATCOM antennas to radar systems.
The industry demands seamless motion control, accurate positional feedback, and robust data transfer capabilities, all of which our products deliver. By leveraging the latest technologies and adhering to high compliance standards, we support the industry's growth and the evolving needs of satellite communications and radar automation, contributing to the advancement of high-speed, high-efficiency systems in both terrestrial and maritime applications. If you need any further assistance on your application in these industries, please contact our technical team at (+44) 01202 599922 or via email at [email protected].