Large receiving antenna for satellite communications - comprises several panels of sandwich of synthetic materials with metallised skins and contains heating elements for de-icing

摘要

The antenna reflector comprises several panels of a sandwich of synthetic materials. These panels comprise a polyester resin reinforced with glass fibre and with two thin external skins and internal spacers. The external skins are coated with thin layers of a zinc deposit. Within the skins are located electrical heating elements for de-icing. The panels are fixed together by metallic feet attached by surrounding them with the internal sandwich material. Threaded shafts and adjustment screws provide inter panel coupling and permit precise positioning. The supporting structure comprises radial members of a stiffened monobloc structure with variable cross section. A circular beam assembly supports a rack and is attached to the reflector by intermediate stiffeners. The rack is engaged by a motor assembly to orientate the reflector.