Abstract
A novel method for controlling the shape of an antenna reflector based on surface accuracy analyses using an optical shape measurement system such as a stereo vision or photogrammetry system is developed, and its feasibility is demonstrated. In the control procedure, intentional deformations are added to a reflector surface by using surface adjustment mechanisms, and the corresponding changes in the surface accuracy of the measured surface shape are analyzed using an optical shape measurement system. Then, the control inputs for the shape correction of the deformed reflector are directly determined from the information about the changes in the surface accuracy. Some numerical simulations and experiments are performed, and the feasibility of the developed method is demonstrated. The results of the investigation show that deformations in the reflector are properly corrected by the developed method when its shape is measured at appropriate points.
