EP3157094A1 - Compact antenna with modular beam aperture - Google Patents

Compact antenna with modular beam aperture Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3157094A1
EP3157094A1 EP16193184.5A EP16193184A EP3157094A1 EP 3157094 A1 EP3157094 A1 EP 3157094A1 EP 16193184 A EP16193184 A EP 16193184A EP 3157094 A1 EP3157094 A1 EP 3157094A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
actuator
antenna
reflector
secondary reflector
actuator assembly
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP16193184.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Jérôme LORENZO
Nicolas Ferrando
Jérôme Brossier
Benjamin Monteillet
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Thales SA
Original Assignee
Thales SA
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Thales SA filed Critical Thales SA
Publication of EP3157094A1 publication Critical patent/EP3157094A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q3/00—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system
    • H01Q3/12—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems
    • H01Q3/16—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems for varying relative position of primary active element and a reflecting device
    • H01Q3/20—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems for varying relative position of primary active element and a reflecting device wherein the primary active element is fixed and the reflecting device is movable
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
    • H01Q1/125—Means for positioning
    • H01Q1/1264—Adjusting different parts or elements of an aerial unit
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q15/00—Devices for reflection, refraction, diffraction or polarisation of waves radiated from an antenna, e.g. quasi-optical devices
    • H01Q15/14—Reflecting surfaces; Equivalent structures
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q19/00—Combinations of primary active antenna elements and units with secondary devices, e.g. with quasi-optical devices, for giving the antenna a desired directional characteristic
    • H01Q19/10—Combinations of primary active antenna elements and units with secondary devices, e.g. with quasi-optical devices, for giving the antenna a desired directional characteristic using reflecting surfaces
    • H01Q19/18—Combinations of primary active antenna elements and units with secondary devices, e.g. with quasi-optical devices, for giving the antenna a desired directional characteristic using reflecting surfaces having two or more spaced reflecting surfaces
    • H01Q19/19—Combinations of primary active antenna elements and units with secondary devices, e.g. with quasi-optical devices, for giving the antenna a desired directional characteristic using reflecting surfaces having two or more spaced reflecting surfaces comprising one main concave reflecting surface associated with an auxiliary reflecting surface
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q3/00—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system
    • H01Q3/01—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system varying the shape of the antenna or antenna system
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q3/00—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system
    • H01Q3/02—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical movement of antenna or antenna system as a whole
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q3/00—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system
    • H01Q3/12—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems
    • H01Q3/16—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems for varying relative position of primary active element and a reflecting device

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a compact antenna. It applies in particular to dual-axis compact antennas which must offer a wide range of azimuth and elevation pointing, as well as operation in transmission, reception and / or bipolarization. It applies in particular in the field of space, antennas mounted on satellites.
  • angular coverage is meant in terms of pointing, i.e. typically with a cone having an angular half-width at the apex of up to 80 °.
  • Low-orbiting satellites known as "scrolling" satellites
  • the mission may require both strong pointing agility and transmitting and receiving antenna operation. and in bipolarization, and a generation of several beamwidths.
  • a reflector antenna comprising a fixed fixed source in which the reflector has a symmetry of revolution and comprises a pointing mechanism which actuates it in rotation along two axes azimuth and elevation.
  • the agility of pointing is obtained thanks to the movement of the reflector.
  • the symmetry of The reflector revolution does not maximize the antenna gain at the edge of the coverage or control the cross-polarization performance over a wide scanning range.
  • it is difficult to minimize the height of the antenna because of the position of the source which is generally very far from the reflector and the length of the waveguide to reach the source is important and is not compatible with bi-polarization operation. Such an antenna does not allow to generate several beam openings either.
  • a dual reflector antenna comprising a source placed in front of the secondary reflector in which the pointing agility of the antenna is obtained on an azimuth axis by virtue of the movement of all the two reflectors and source.
  • the pointing agility of the antenna on an elevation axis is obtained thanks to the movement of all the two reflectors with respect to the source which remains fixed.
  • An object of the invention is to overcome the problems mentioned above, and more particularly to provide a compact antenna architecture allowing a very large range of scanning to generate with the same passive point antenna several beam openings.
  • a compact single-beam antenna comprising a main reflector, a secondary or subreflector reflector, and a controlled actuator assembly acting on the secondary reflector to handle the beam opening.
  • Such an antenna makes it possible to generate a plurality of beam openings.
  • the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move in translation the secondary reflector said sub-reflector.
  • the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move the secondary reflector
  • the equivalent focal length of the antenna is modified as well as the level of illumination of the source on the edges of the sub-reflector, which makes it possible to change the shape of the antenna diagram and thus the opening of the main lobe.
  • the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to deform the secondary or subreflector reflector.
  • the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to deform the secondary reflector the shape, or "shaping" in English, of the sub-reflector is modified, which makes it possible to modify the shape of the antenna diagram and thus the opening of the main lobe.
  • the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move the secondary reflector and at least one actuator adapted to deform the secondary reflector, the equivalent focal length of the antenna, and the shape or "shaping" of the sub-reflector are modified together: by combining these two effects, this makes it possible to modify in a more important way the shape of the antenna diagram and thus the opening of the lobe main. The antenna aperture variation excursion on the main lobe is then maximized.
  • the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move and deform the secondary reflector.
  • the actuator assembly comprises an actuator capable of displacing and deforming the secondary reflector
  • the implantation of the single actuator system makes it possible to graft the flexible beam opening function over a wide opening excursion while minimizing the impact on the cost and complexity of the antenna.
  • this single actuator is easily implantable because its mass and volume are very small, and it requires only a single electrical harness to control it.
  • the actuators are configured in series.
  • Configuring the actuators in series allows them to be controlled independently and to simply and precisely manage the desired displacement and deformation to change the beamwidth.
  • At least one actuator is linear.
  • linear actuators for example of the step-by-step type, makes it possible to control the variation of the beam opening simply and precisely, and also allows this control to be reversible (the beam can open or to close).
  • the secondary reflector has a symmetry of revolution.
  • the compact antenna also includes the conventional elements necessary for its operation as described, for example, in the application FR whose registration number is 14/02674.
  • a conventional compact antenna is shown schematically, and comprises in particular a main reflector 2, in this case a plane mirror inclined relative to an elevation axis X, and a secondary reflector 3, in this case a parabolic surface mirror of revolution.
  • the plane mirror 2 and the parabolic mirror 3 are mounted on a plate 4 of the mobile compact antenna 1 in rotation around the azimuth axis Z.
  • This first embodiment comprises an actuator 5, for example a linear actuator, adapted to move the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X.
  • an actuator 5 for example a linear actuator, adapted to move the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X.
  • the secondary reflector 3 is moved to the left along the elevation axis X, between the Figures 1a and 1b , by controlled action of the actuator 5.
  • This controlled displacement of the secondary reflector 3 makes it possible to modify the beam aperture of the compact antenna 1.
  • a conventional compact antenna is shown schematically, and comprises in particular a main reflector 2, in this case a plane mirror inclined relative to an elevation axis X, and a secondary reflector 3, in this case a mirror to parabolic surface of revolution.
  • the plane mirror 2 and the parabolic mirror 3 are mounted on a plate 4 of the mobile compact antenna 1 in rotation around the azimuth axis Z.
  • This second embodiment comprises an actuator 6, for example a linear actuator, adapted to deform the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X, or, in other words, to modify its concavity or its shape.
  • actuator 6 for example a linear actuator, adapted to deform the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X, or, in other words, to modify its concavity or its shape.
  • the actuator 6 may comprise a linear actuator associated with a system of tie rods on the periphery of the sub-reflector made of a flexible material for reflecting the electromagnetic waves.
  • the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror 3 is deformed, for example by decreasing its concavity between the Figures 2a and 2b by controlled action of the actuator 6.
  • This controlled deformation of the secondary reflector 3 makes it possible to modify the beam aperture of the compact antenna 1.
  • a conventional compact antenna is shown schematically, and comprises in particular a main reflector 2, in this case a plane mirror inclined relative to an elevation axis X, and a secondary reflector 3, in this case a mirror to parabolic surface of revolution.
  • the plane mirror 2 and the parabolic mirror 3 are mounted on a plate 4 of the mobile compact antenna 1 in rotation around the azimuth axis Z.
  • This second embodiment comprises an actuator 7, for example a linear actuator, adapted to move and / or deform the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X.
  • actuator 7 for example a linear actuator, adapted to move and / or deform the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X.
  • the actuator 7 may comprise a linear actuator assembly with tie rod system taking up the periphery of the sub-reflector made of a flexible material for reflecting the electromagnetic waves, all associated with a single spring system allowing with the same linear actuator to open the shape of the sub-reflector once that same sub-reflector has been moved.
  • the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror 3 is moved and then deformed by decreasing its concavity between the Figures 3b and 3c by controlled action of the actuator 7.
  • the figure 4 represents a generalization of the embodiment of Figures 3a, 3b and 3c , wherein the actuator assembly comprises two actuators 8 and 9 configured in series.
  • the actuators 8 and 9 may be rotary actuators allowing the desired movements of the secondary reflector 3.
  • the actuators are linear actuators.
  • the actuator 8 comprises a body 81 and a rod 82 movable in translation along an axis with respect to the body 81, in this case the elevation axis X.
  • the actuator 8 makes it possible to move the secondary reflector 3, in a manner that occurrence along the X axis of elevation
  • the actuator 9 comprises a body 91 and a rod 92 movable in translation along an axis with respect to the body 91, in this case the elevation axis X.
  • the actuator 9 serves to deform the secondary reflector 3, in this case to modify the concavity of the secondary reflector 3 in view of the rigid connection between the actuator 9 and the secondary reflector 3.
  • This actuator 9 may comprise a simple passive spring system.
  • the actuators 8 and 9 are controlled so as to move in translation for each rod, relative to the respective body.
  • the body 81 is integral with the plate 4 of the antenna 1.
  • the actuators 8 and 9 are configured in series so that the body 91 is secured to the rod 82.
  • the rod 92 is integral with the secondary reflector 3.
  • the axes are advantageously combined, in this case the axis of elevation X.
  • the axes of the two actuators 8 and 9 may be parallel and spaced from each other.

Abstract

Antenne compacte (1) à un seul faisceau comprenant un réflecteur principal (2), un réflecteur secondaire (3), et un ensemble actionneur (8, 9) commandé agissant sur le réflecteur secondaire (3) de manière à gérer l'ouverture du faisceau.Single-beam compact antenna (1) comprising a main reflector (2), a secondary reflector (3), and a controlled actuator assembly (8, 9) acting on the secondary reflector (3) to handle the opening of the beam.

Description

L'invention porte sur une antenne compacte. Elle s'applique notamment aux antennes compactes bi-axe qui doivent offrir un large domaine de pointage en azimut et en élévation, ainsi qu'un fonctionnement en émission, en réception et/ou en bipolarisation. Elle s'applique en particulier dans le domaine spatial, aux antennes montées sur des satellites.The invention relates to a compact antenna. It applies in particular to dual-axis compact antennas which must offer a wide range of azimuth and elevation pointing, as well as operation in transmission, reception and / or bipolarization. It applies in particular in the field of space, antennas mounted on satellites.

On entend par large couverture angulaire en terme de pointage, i.e. typiquement avec un cône de demi-largeur angulaire au sommet pouvant aller jusqu'à 80°.By wide angular coverage is meant in terms of pointing, i.e. typically with a cone having an angular half-width at the apex of up to 80 °.

Les satellites en orbite basse, dits "défilants", ne disposent que de faibles volumes pour implanter des équipements d'antenne, et la mission peut exiger à la fois une forte agilité de pointage et un fonctionnement de l'antenne en émission et en réception et en bipolarisation, et une génération de plusieurs ouvertures de faisceau.Low-orbiting satellites, known as "scrolling" satellites, have only low volumes to implement antenna equipment, and the mission may require both strong pointing agility and transmitting and receiving antenna operation. and in bipolarization, and a generation of several beamwidths.

Il n'est pas connu d'antennes à agilité de pointage permettant d'assurer l'ensemble de ces fonctions.It is not known antennas agility pointing to ensure all of these functions.

Il est connu de réaliser une antenne parabolique centrée à laquelle est ajouté un miroir plan pour obtenir l'agilité en élévation. L'ensemble tourne autour de l'axe vertical pour avoir l'agilité en azimut. Une telle antenne parabolique ne permet pas un fonctionnement en bipolarisation ni d'éviter le point de singularité nadir. Elle ne permet pas non plus de générer plusieurs ouvertures de faisceau.It is known to produce a centered parabolic antenna to which is added a plane mirror to obtain agility in elevation. The set rotates around the vertical axis to have agility in azimuth. Such a parabolic antenna does not allow operation in bipolarization nor to avoid the point of singularity nadir. It also does not allow to generate several beam openings.

Il est également connu de réaliser une antenne à réflecteur comportant une source fixe centrée dans laquelle le réflecteur a une symétrie de révolution et comporte un mécanisme de pointage qui l'actionne en rotation selon deux axes azimut et élévation. L'agilité de pointage est obtenue grâce au mouvement du réflecteur. Cependant la symétrie de révolution du réflecteur ne permet pas de maximiser le gain de l'antenne en limite de la couverture ni de maîtriser les performances de polarisation croisée sur un large domaine de balayage. En outre, il est difficile de minimiser la hauteur de l'antenne en raison de la position de la source qui est généralement très éloignée du réflecteur et la longueur du guide d'onde pour atteindre la source est importante et n'est pas compatible avec un fonctionnement bi-polarisation. Une telle antenne ne permet pas non plus de générer plusieurs ouvertures de faisceau.It is also known to provide a reflector antenna comprising a fixed fixed source in which the reflector has a symmetry of revolution and comprises a pointing mechanism which actuates it in rotation along two axes azimuth and elevation. The agility of pointing is obtained thanks to the movement of the reflector. However the symmetry of The reflector revolution does not maximize the antenna gain at the edge of the coverage or control the cross-polarization performance over a wide scanning range. In addition, it is difficult to minimize the height of the antenna because of the position of the source which is generally very far from the reflector and the length of the waveguide to reach the source is important and is not compatible with bi-polarization operation. Such an antenna does not allow to generate several beam openings either.

Il est également connu de réaliser une antenne à double réflecteurs comportant une source placée devant le réflecteur secondaire dans laquelle l'agilité de pointage de l'antenne est obtenue sur un axe d'azimut grâce au mouvement de l'ensemble des deux réflecteurs et de la source. L'agilité de pointage de l'antenne sur un axe d'élévation est obtenue grâce au mouvement de l'ensemble des deux réflecteurs par rapport à la source qui reste fixe. Les inconvénients sont que cette solution d'antenne ne permet pas un fonctionnement en bipolarisation et en outre, le volume nécessaire pour l'implantation de la cinématique de l'antenne est important. Une telle antenne ne permet pas non plus de générer plusieurs ouvertures de faisceau.It is also known to provide a dual reflector antenna comprising a source placed in front of the secondary reflector in which the pointing agility of the antenna is obtained on an azimuth axis by virtue of the movement of all the two reflectors and source. The pointing agility of the antenna on an elevation axis is obtained thanks to the movement of all the two reflectors with respect to the source which remains fixed. The disadvantages are that this antenna solution does not allow operation in bipolarization and furthermore, the volume necessary for the implantation of the kinematics of the antenna is important. Such an antenna does not allow to generate several beam openings either.

Il est également connu de réaliser une antenne comportant un réflecteur centré dans laquelle l'agilité de pointage est obtenue par un ensemble de trois actuateurs linéaires associés à des bras articulés. La jonction radiofréquence bipolarisation est assurée par deux câbles coaxiaux. Les inconvénients sont que cette solution présente un encombrement, une masse et un coût importants. En outre, les liaisons radiofréquence réalisées par des câbles coaxiaux souples posent des problèmes de durée de vie. Une telle antenne ne permet pas non plus de générer plusieurs ouvertures de faisceau.It is also known to produce an antenna comprising a centered reflector in which the agility of pointing is obtained by a set of three linear actuators associated with articulated arms. The bipolarization radiofrequency junction is provided by two coaxial cables. The disadvantages are that this solution has a large footprint, mass and cost. In addition, radiofrequency links made by flexible coaxial cables pose problems of service life. Such an antenna does not allow to generate several beam openings either.

Un but de l'invention est de pallier les problèmes précédemment cités, et plus particulièrement de fournir une architecture antenne compacte permettant sur un très large domaine de balayage de générer avec la même antenne pointable passive plusieurs ouvertures de faisceaux.An object of the invention is to overcome the problems mentioned above, and more particularly to provide a compact antenna architecture allowing a very large range of scanning to generate with the same passive point antenna several beam openings.

Aussi, il est proposé, selon un aspect de l'invention, une antenne compacte à un seul faisceau comprenant un réflecteur principal, un réflecteur secondaire ou sub-réflecteur, et un ensemble actionneur commandé agissant sur le réflecteur secondaire de manière à gérer l'ouverture du faisceau.Also, according to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a compact single-beam antenna comprising a main reflector, a secondary or subreflector reflector, and a controlled actuator assembly acting on the secondary reflector to handle the beam opening.

Une telle antenne permet de générer une pluralité d'ouvertures de faisceau.Such an antenna makes it possible to generate a plurality of beam openings.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur adapté pour déplacer en translation le réflecteur secondaire dit sub-réflecteur.In one embodiment, the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move in translation the secondary reflector said sub-reflector.

Ainsi, lorsque l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur adapté pour déplacer le réflecteur secondaire, la focale équivalente de l'antenne est modifiée ainsi que le niveau d'éclairement de la source sur les bords du sub-réflecteur, ce qui permet de modifier la forme du diagramme antenne et donc l'ouverture du lobe principal.Thus, when the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move the secondary reflector, the equivalent focal length of the antenna is modified as well as the level of illumination of the source on the edges of the sub-reflector, which makes it possible to change the shape of the antenna diagram and thus the opening of the main lobe.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur adapté pour déformer le réflecteur secondaire ou sub-réflecteur.According to one embodiment, the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to deform the secondary or subreflector reflector.

Ainsi, lorsque l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur adapté pour déformer le réflecteur secondaire la forme, ou "shaping" en langue anglaise, du sub-réflecteur est modifiée, ce qui permet de modifier la forme du diagramme antenne et donc l'ouverture du lobe principal.Thus, when the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to deform the secondary reflector the shape, or "shaping" in English, of the sub-reflector is modified, which makes it possible to modify the shape of the antenna diagram and thus the opening of the main lobe.

Lorsque l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur adapté pour déplacer le réflecteur secondaire et au moins un actionneur adapté pour déformer le réflecteur secondaire, la focale équivalente de l'antenne, ainsi que la forme ou "shaping" du sub-réflecteur sont modifiés ensemble: en combinant ces deux effets, ceci permet de modifier de façon plus importante la forme du diagramme d'antenne et donc l'ouverture du lobe principal. L'excursion de variation d'ouverture antenne sur le lobe principal est alors maximisée.When the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move the secondary reflector and at least one actuator adapted to deform the secondary reflector, the equivalent focal length of the antenna, and the shape or "shaping" of the sub-reflector are modified together: by combining these two effects, this makes it possible to modify in a more important way the shape of the antenna diagram and thus the opening of the lobe main. The antenna aperture variation excursion on the main lobe is then maximized.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur adapté pour déplacer et déformer le réflecteur secondaire.According to one embodiment, the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator adapted to move and deform the secondary reflector.

Ainsi, lorsque l'ensemble actionneur comprend un actionneur capable de déplacer et déformer le réflecteur secondaire, l'implantation du système actionneur unique permet de greffer la fonction ouverture de faisceau modulable sur une large excursion d'ouverture tout en minimisant l'impact sur le coût et la complexité de l'antenne. En effet, cet actionneur unique est facilement implantable car sa masse et son volume sont très faibles, et il ne nécessite qu'un unique harnais électrique pour le commander.Thus, when the actuator assembly comprises an actuator capable of displacing and deforming the secondary reflector, the implantation of the single actuator system makes it possible to graft the flexible beam opening function over a wide opening excursion while minimizing the impact on the cost and complexity of the antenna. Indeed, this single actuator is easily implantable because its mass and volume are very small, and it requires only a single electrical harness to control it.

Dans un mode de réalisation, les actionneurs sont configurés en série.In one embodiment, the actuators are configured in series.

Le fait de configurer les actionneurs en série permet de les commander indépendamment et de gérer simplement et de manière précise le déplacement et la déformation souhaités pour modifier l'ouverture de faisceau.Configuring the actuators in series allows them to be controlled independently and to simply and precisely manage the desired displacement and deformation to change the beamwidth.

Selon un mode de réalisation, au moins un actionneur est linéaire.According to one embodiment, at least one actuator is linear.

L'utilisation d'actionneurs linéaires, par exemple de type pas-à-pas permet de piloter simplement et avec précision la variation de l'ouverture de faisceau, et permet également que ce pilotage soit réversible (le faisceau peut s'ouvrir ou se fermer).The use of linear actuators, for example of the step-by-step type, makes it possible to control the variation of the beam opening simply and precisely, and also allows this control to be reversible (the beam can open or to close).

Dans un mode de réalisation, le réflecteur secondaire a une symétrie de révolution.In one embodiment, the secondary reflector has a symmetry of revolution.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à l'étude de quelques modes de réalisation décrits à titre d'exemples nullement limitatifs et illustrés par les dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • les figures 1a et 1b illustrent schématiquement un mode de réalisation selon un aspect de l'invention dans lequel l'ensemble actionneur ne comprend que des actionneurs adaptés pour déplacer le réflecteur secondaire;
  • les figures 2a et 2b illustrent schématiquement un mode de réalisation selon un aspect de l'invention dans lequel l'ensemble actionneur ne comprend que des actionneurs adaptés pour déformer le réflecteur secondaire;
  • la figure 3a, 3b et 3c illustrent schématiquement un mode de réalisation selon un aspect de l'invention dans lequel l'ensemble actionneur comprend des actionneurs adaptés pour déplacer le réflecteur secondaire et des actionneurs adaptés pour déformer le réflecteur secondaire; et
  • la figure 4 illustre schématiquement un mode de réalisation généralisé de celui des figures 3a, 3b et 3c.
The invention will be better understood by studying a few embodiments described by way of non-limiting examples and illustrated by the appended drawings in which:
  • the Figures 1a and 1b schematically illustrate an embodiment according to an aspect of the invention wherein the actuator assembly comprises only actuators adapted to move the secondary reflector;
  • the Figures 2a and 2b schematically illustrate an embodiment according to an aspect of the invention wherein the actuator assembly comprises only actuators adapted to deform the secondary reflector;
  • the Figure 3a, 3b and 3c schematically illustrate an embodiment according to an aspect of the invention wherein the actuator assembly comprises actuators adapted to move the secondary reflector and actuators adapted to deform the secondary reflector; and
  • the figure 4 schematically illustrates a generalized embodiment of that of Figures 3a, 3b and 3c .

Sur les différentes figures, les éléments ayant des références identiques sont identiques.In the various figures, the elements having identical references are identical.

Sur les figures suivantes sont illustrées, de manière très schématique, des exemples d'antennes compactes selon divers mode de réalisation de l'invention.In the following figures are illustrated, very schematically, examples of compact antennas according to various embodiments of the invention.

Seuls les éléments nécessaire à l'invention sont représentés, mais l'antenne compacte comprend également les éléments classiques nécessaires à son fonctionnement tels que décrits, par exemple, dans la demande FR dont le numéro d'enregistrement est 14/02674.Only the elements necessary for the invention are represented, but the compact antenna also includes the conventional elements necessary for its operation as described, for example, in the application FR whose registration number is 14/02674.

Sur les figures 1a et 1b, une antenne compacte classique est représentée schématiquement, et comprend notamment un réflecteur principal 2, en l'espèce un miroir plan incliné par rapport à un axe d'élévation X, ainsi qu'un réflecteur secondaire 3, en l'occurrence un miroir à surface parabolique de révolution. Le miroir plan 2 et le miroir parabolique 3 sont montés sur une platine 4 de l'antenne compacte mobile 1 en rotation autour de l'axe d'azimut Z.On the Figures 1a and 1b , a conventional compact antenna is shown schematically, and comprises in particular a main reflector 2, in this case a plane mirror inclined relative to an elevation axis X, and a secondary reflector 3, in this case a parabolic surface mirror of revolution. The plane mirror 2 and the parabolic mirror 3 are mounted on a plate 4 of the mobile compact antenna 1 in rotation around the azimuth axis Z.

Ce premier mode de réalisation comprend un actionneur 5, par exemple un actionneur linéaire, adapté pour déplacer le réflecteur secondaire 3 ou miroir parabolique selon l'axe d'élévation X.This first embodiment comprises an actuator 5, for example a linear actuator, adapted to move the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X.

Sur l'exemple décrit, le réflecteur secondaire 3 est déplacé vers la gauche selon l'axe d'élévation X, entre les figures 1a et 1b, par action commandée de l'actionneur 5.In the example described, the secondary reflector 3 is moved to the left along the elevation axis X, between the Figures 1a and 1b , by controlled action of the actuator 5.

Ce déplacement commandé du réflecteur secondaire 3 permet de modifier l'ouverture de faisceau de l'antenne compacte 1.This controlled displacement of the secondary reflector 3 makes it possible to modify the beam aperture of the compact antenna 1.

Sur les figures 2a et 2b, une antenne compacte classique est représentée schématiquement, et comprend notamment un réflecteur principal 2, en l'espèce un miroir plan incliné par rapport à un axe d'élévation X, ainsi qu'un réflecteur secondaire 3, en l'occurrence un miroir à surface parabolique de révolution. Le miroir plan 2 et le miroir parabolique 3 sont montés sur une platine 4 de l'antenne compacte mobile 1 en rotation autour de l'axe d'azimut Z.On the Figures 2a and 2b , a conventional compact antenna is shown schematically, and comprises in particular a main reflector 2, in this case a plane mirror inclined relative to an elevation axis X, and a secondary reflector 3, in this case a mirror to parabolic surface of revolution. The plane mirror 2 and the parabolic mirror 3 are mounted on a plate 4 of the mobile compact antenna 1 in rotation around the azimuth axis Z.

Ce deuxième mode de réalisation comprend un actionneur 6, par exemple un actionneur linéaire, adapté pour déformer le réflecteur secondaire 3 ou miroir parabolique selon l'axe d'élévation X, ou, en d'autres termes, modifier sa concavité ou sa forme.This second embodiment comprises an actuator 6, for example a linear actuator, adapted to deform the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X, or, in other words, to modify its concavity or its shape.

Par exemple, l'actionneur 6 peut comprendre un actionneur linéaire associé à un système de tirants se reprenant sur la périphérie du sub-réflecteur réalisé dans un matériau souple permettant de réfléchir les ondes électromagnétiques.For example, the actuator 6 may comprise a linear actuator associated with a system of tie rods on the periphery of the sub-reflector made of a flexible material for reflecting the electromagnetic waves.

Sur l'exemple décrit, le réflecteur secondaire 3 ou miroir parabolique 3 est déformé, par exemple par diminution de sa concavité entre les figures 2a et 2b par action commandée de l'actionneur 6.In the example described, the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror 3 is deformed, for example by decreasing its concavity between the Figures 2a and 2b by controlled action of the actuator 6.

Cette déformation commandée du réflecteur secondaire 3 permet de modifier l'ouverture de faisceau de l'antenne compacte 1.This controlled deformation of the secondary reflector 3 makes it possible to modify the beam aperture of the compact antenna 1.

Sur les figures 3a, 3b et 3c, une antenne compacte classique est représentée schématiquement, et comprend notamment un réflecteur principal 2, en l'espèce un miroir plan incliné par rapport à un axe d'élévation X, ainsi qu'un réflecteur secondaire 3, en l'occurrence un miroir à surface parabolique de révolution. Le miroir plan 2 et le miroir parabolique 3 sont montés sur une platine 4 de l'antenne compacte mobile 1 en rotation autour de l'axe d'azimut Z.On the Figures 3a, 3b and 3c , a conventional compact antenna is shown schematically, and comprises in particular a main reflector 2, in this case a plane mirror inclined relative to an elevation axis X, and a secondary reflector 3, in this case a mirror to parabolic surface of revolution. The plane mirror 2 and the parabolic mirror 3 are mounted on a plate 4 of the mobile compact antenna 1 in rotation around the azimuth axis Z.

Ce deuxième mode de réalisation comprend un actionneur 7, par exemple un actionneur linéaire, adapté pour déplacer et/ou déformer le réflecteur secondaire 3 ou miroir parabolique selon l'axe d'élévation X.This second embodiment comprises an actuator 7, for example a linear actuator, adapted to move and / or deform the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror along the axis of elevation X.

Par exemple, l'actionneur 7 peut comprendre un ensemble actionneur linéaire avec système de tirants se reprenant sur la périphérie du sub-réflecteur réalisé dans un matériau souple permettant de réfléchir les ondes électromagnétiques, le tout associé à un système de ressort unique permettant avec le même actuateur linéaire d'ouvrir la forme du sub-réflecteur une fois que ce même sub-réflecteur a été déplacé.For example, the actuator 7 may comprise a linear actuator assembly with tie rod system taking up the periphery of the sub-reflector made of a flexible material for reflecting the electromagnetic waves, all associated with a single spring system allowing with the same linear actuator to open the shape of the sub-reflector once that same sub-reflector has been moved.

Sur l'exemple décrit, le réflecteur secondaire 3 ou miroir parabolique 3 est déplacé puis déformé par diminution de sa concavité entre les figures 3b et 3c par action commandée de l'actionneur 7.In the example described, the secondary reflector 3 or parabolic mirror 3 is moved and then deformed by decreasing its concavity between the Figures 3b and 3c by controlled action of the actuator 7.

Cette combinaison de déplacement et de déformation commandée du réflecteur secondaire 3 permet de modifier l'ouverture de faisceau de l'antenne compacte 1.This combination of displacement and controlled deformation of the secondary reflector 3 makes it possible to modify the beam aperture of the compact antenna 1.

La figure 4 représente une généralisation du mode de réalisation des figures 3a, 3b et 3c, dans lequel l'ensemble actionneur comprend deux actionneurs 8 et 9 configurés en série.The figure 4 represents a generalization of the embodiment of Figures 3a, 3b and 3c , wherein the actuator assembly comprises two actuators 8 and 9 configured in series.

Les actionneurs 8 et 9 peuvent être des actionneurs rotatifs permettant les mouvements souhaités du réflecteur secondaire 3. Avantageusement, les actionneurs sont des actionneurs linéaires.The actuators 8 and 9 may be rotary actuators allowing the desired movements of the secondary reflector 3. Advantageously, the actuators are linear actuators.

L'actionneur 8 comprend un corps 81 et une tige 82 mobile en translation selon un axe par rapport au corps 81, en l'espèce l'axe d'élévation X. L'actionneur 8 permet de déplacer le réflecteur secondaire 3, en l'occurrence selon l'axe d'élévation X.The actuator 8 comprises a body 81 and a rod 82 movable in translation along an axis with respect to the body 81, in this case the elevation axis X. The actuator 8 makes it possible to move the secondary reflector 3, in a manner that occurrence along the X axis of elevation

De même l'actionneur 9 comprend un corps 91 et une tige 92 mobile en translation selon un axe par rapport au corps 91, en l'espèce l'axe d'élévation X. L'actionneur 9 permet de déformer le réflecteur secondaire 3, en l'occurrence de modifier la concavité du réflecteur secondaire 3 au vu de la connexion rigide entre l'actionneur 9 et le réflecteur secondaire 3. Cet actionneur 9 peut comprendre un simple système passif de ressort.Similarly, the actuator 9 comprises a body 91 and a rod 92 movable in translation along an axis with respect to the body 91, in this case the elevation axis X. The actuator 9 serves to deform the secondary reflector 3, in this case to modify the concavity of the secondary reflector 3 in view of the rigid connection between the actuator 9 and the secondary reflector 3. This actuator 9 may comprise a simple passive spring system.

Les actionneurs 8 et 9 sont pilotés de manière à déplacer en translation pour chacun la tige, par rapport au corps respectif. Le corps 81 est solidaire de la platine 4 de l'antenne 1. Les actionneurs 8 et 9 sont configurés en série de sorte que le corps 91 est solidaire de la tige 82. La tige 92 est solidaire du réflecteur secondaire 3.The actuators 8 and 9 are controlled so as to move in translation for each rod, relative to the respective body. The body 81 is integral with the plate 4 of the antenna 1. The actuators 8 and 9 are configured in series so that the body 91 is secured to the rod 82. The rod 92 is integral with the secondary reflector 3.

Pour simplifier la construction du dispositif les axes sont avantageusement confondus, en l'espèce l'axe d'élévation X. D'autres dispositions sont possibles dans le cadre de l'invention. En variante, les axes des deux actionneurs 8 et 9 peuvent être parallèles et distants l'un de l'autre.To simplify the construction of the device the axes are advantageously combined, in this case the axis of elevation X. Other arrangements are possible within the scope of the invention. Alternatively, the axes of the two actuators 8 and 9 may be parallel and spaced from each other.

Claims (8)

Antenne compacte (1) à un seul faisceau comprenant un réflecteur principal (2), un réflecteur secondaire (3), et un ensemble actionneur (5; 6; 7; 8, 9) commandé agissant sur le réflecteur secondaire (3) de manière à gérer l'ouverture du faisceau.A single-beam compact antenna (1) comprising a main reflector (2), a secondary reflector (3), and a controlled actuator assembly (5; 6; 7; 8,9) acting on the secondary reflector (3) in such a manner that to manage the opening of the beam. Antenne selon la revendication 1, dans laquelle l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur (5) adapté pour déplacer en translation le réflecteur secondaire.Antenna according to claim 1, wherein the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator (5) adapted to translately move the secondary reflector. Antenne selon l'une des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur (6) adapté pour déformer le réflecteur secondaire.Antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator (6) adapted to deform the secondary reflector. Antenne selon l'une des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur (7) adapté pour déplacer et déformer le réflecteur secondaire.Antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator assembly comprises at least one actuator (7) adapted to move and deform the secondary reflector. Antenne selon les revendications 2 et 3, dans laquelle les actionneurs (8,9) sont configurés en série.Antenna according to claims 2 and 3, wherein the actuators (8,9) are configured in series. Antenne selon l'une des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle au moins un actionneur (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) est linéaire.Antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one actuator (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) is linear. Antenne selon l'une des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle le réflecteur secondaire (3) a une symétrie de révolution.Antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the secondary reflector (3) has a symmetry of revolution. Antenne selon l'une des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'ensemble actionneur comprend au moins un actionneur pas-à-pas (5, 6, 7, 8, 9).Antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator assembly comprises at least one step-by-step actuator (5, 6, 7, 8, 9).
EP16193184.5A 2015-10-16 2016-10-11 Compact antenna with modular beam aperture Withdrawn EP3157094A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1502177A FR3042653B1 (en) 2015-10-16 2015-10-16 COMPACT ANTENNA WITH MODULAR BEAM OPENING

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EP3157094A1 true EP3157094A1 (en) 2017-04-19

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EP (1) EP3157094A1 (en)
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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5579018A (en) * 1995-05-11 1996-11-26 Space Systems/Loral, Inc. Redundant differential linear actuator
EP1414110A1 (en) * 2002-10-23 2004-04-28 EMS Technologies Canada, Limited Steerable antenna system with fixed feed source
EP2648281A1 (en) * 2012-04-06 2013-10-09 Thales Reconfigurable antenna reflector

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5579018A (en) * 1995-05-11 1996-11-26 Space Systems/Loral, Inc. Redundant differential linear actuator
EP1414110A1 (en) * 2002-10-23 2004-04-28 EMS Technologies Canada, Limited Steerable antenna system with fixed feed source
EP2648281A1 (en) * 2012-04-06 2013-10-09 Thales Reconfigurable antenna reflector

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FR3042653B1 (en) 2017-10-27
US20170110794A1 (en) 2017-04-20
CA2944953A1 (en) 2017-04-16
FR3042653A1 (en) 2017-04-21

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