Complex energy supply in radar system for space observation

The GESTRA radar system (German Experimental Space Surveillance and Tracking Radar) consists, among other things, of a transmitter and receiver system consisting of 256 individually electronically controlled antennas and receiver units. AlpinaTec had the task of developing a high-precision three-axis positioning system for both the transmitter and the receiver, with electrically tensioned and clearance-free drives as well as corresponding cable and supply paths. The compact energy supply was one of the major challenges in this project due to the tight construction volume, the complexity and degrees of freedom of the axis arrangement and the variety of media and signals to be conducted and the resulting "diversity" of hoses and cables.

Taking into account the limited space available so as not to collide with the outer shell, the tilting axle "Elevation" was equipped with a compact double chain system on both sides, which contains two interlocking vertical hanging e-chain® series E4.56 running into each other. The entire system can cope with the changing gravity conditions - a decisive criterion. A complex "Reverse Bend Radius" solution including a so-called floating island was developed and realised for the vertical standing azimuth axis with a horizontal rotation angle of 430°. E4.56 chains are also installed here: four pieces, sideways with reverse bend radius, equipped with strain reliefs (article no. 3250.ZB).