2007 Volume 50 Issue 167 Pages 48-55
This study investigates a large reconfigurable antenna system consisting of cable networks. The beam shapes of reconfigurable antennas can be modified by changing the shape of the antenna reflectors. Two types of control actuation—one using tie cables and the other using boundary cables—are considered. For each type, two control methods are applied; they are cable tension control and cable initial length control. Numerical simulations are carried out to investigate characteristics such as robustness against disturbances and natural frequencies. The results of these simulations are compared to determine the appropriate control system of the antenna. It is shown that the tie cable control by the initial length control is preferable. In the case where the operation modes are predetermined, the boundary cable controls are also applicable.
