In Different Planes Patents (Class 343/765)
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Patent number: 5579018Abstract: A positioning device orients an antenna element, or an entire antenna of multiple elements, or other payload requiring positioning relative to a supporting base. The antenna element is pivotally mounted upon the base, and a strut extends from the antenna element to an actuator assembly which moves the strut to adjust the orientation of the antenna element. The actuator assembly has two linear actuators which extend from the base, respectively, to opposite ends of a lever which, in turn, connects via a pivot to an end of the strut distant from the antenna element. The lever pivot is located between the ends of the lever at a location closer to one of the ends than to the other of the ends of the lever, such as a two-to-one ratio of lever arm lengths. Use of a first of the actuators by itself serves for the primary source of adjustment of the position of the antenna element.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1995Date of Patent: November 26, 1996Assignee: Space Systems/Loral, Inc.Inventors: Colin M. Francis, Christopher M. Balkenhol, Carolyn S. Balkenhol
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Patent number: 5537124Abstract: A rotating antenna system subject to both tilt and translation forces includes first and second tilt sensors each having a pendulum assembly of a different length than the other sensor. The sensors provide identical output signals in response to a tilt, but different output signals in response to a translation of the antenna. Circuitry is provided for eliminating the effects of translation so as to obtain a tilt angle correction signal for correcting the radar height calculation.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1994Date of Patent: July 16, 1996Assignee: Northrop GrummanInventors: Robert C. Rankin, Jr., William B. Evans
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Patent number: 5528250Abstract: A deployable satellite antenna system permits an antenna with elevation and azimuth control to be mounted to the roof of a vehicle. The elevation control assembly for the antenna system has a base with two parallel tracks and a slider that moves along these tracks. The antenna reflector is connected to a support frame pivotably attached to the slider. Pivot arms are pivotally attached between the reflector and the base adjacent to the parallel tracks. The elevational position of the antenna is adjusted by a motor that controls the position of the slider along the parallel tracks between a stowed position in which the reflector is stowed facing the vehicle and a deployed position in which the reflector is rotated to a maximum elevational angle. In one embodiment, a feed arm supporting the feed horn extends outward from the antenna support frame adjacent to the lower edge of the antenna.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1995Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Assignee: Winegard CompanyInventors: William J. Sherwood, Charles E. Rodeffer, Mark A. Rodeffer
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Patent number: 5517205Abstract: An antenna pointing device for use in a satellite tracking system, including a satellite tracking system mounted on a moving body. The tracking system has at least one sensor that generates a signal indicating the orientation of the moving body relative to the satellite. The pointing device includes a base mounted on the moving body, an antenna pointing arm carrying the antenna and a universal joint supported by the base. The pointing arm is rotatably mounted within the universal joint for rotation about first and second control axes, the universal joint being constructed and arranged to enable rotation of the pointing arm through greater than 180 degrees but less than 360 degrees about each of the first and second control axes while suffering no singularities of control.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1993Date of Patent: May 14, 1996Assignee: KVH Industries, Inc.Inventors: Martin A. K. van Heyningen, John M. Evans, Jr.
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Patent number: 5517204Abstract: An antenna having a central axis is supported on a supporting member which in turn is supported on an azimuth gimbal. The antenna and the supporting member are rotatable around an elevation axis perpendicular to the central axis gimbal is supported on a base and is rotatable around an azimuth axis perpendicular to the elevation axis. A first gyro having an input axis parallel to the elevation axis is secured to the supporting member, and a second gyro having an input axis perpendicular to both the central axis and the elevation angle axis is secured to the supporting member. An accelerometer is provided for outputting a signal representative of an inclination angle of the central axis relative to a horizontal plane. An azimuth transmitter is provided for outputting a signal representative of a rotation angle of the azimuth gimbal around the azimuth axis.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1993Date of Patent: May 14, 1996Assignee: Tokimec Inc.Inventors: Takao Murakoshi, Takeshi Hojo, Kanshi Yamamoto, Kazuteru Sato, Koichi Umeno, Yoshinori Kamiya, Kazuya Arai, Mutumi Takahashi, Yasuke Kosai
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Patent number: 5512912Abstract: An antenna mount for a vehicle includes a two axis gimbaled mounting which allows the antenna to rotate in two axes. A pendular mass is provided to maintain the antenna in a particular orientation in the absence of any externally applied acceleration. A chamber is provided attached to the pendular mass for holding a viscous dampening fluid. The dampening fluid allows the antenna mount to rotate in response to an externally applied acceleration but serves to dampen any oscillations induced by an externally applied acceleration. The antenna mount maintains the antenna in substantially a predetermined position despite the influence of externally applied accelerations. Shock absorbers may be supplied to the gimbal mounting to aid in the dampening of large accelerations.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1994Date of Patent: April 30, 1996Assignee: AMSC Subsidiary CorporationInventors: David J. Ross, Gary Churan, Charles Kittiver
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Patent number: 5485169Abstract: A passive, active or mixed platform type antenna orienting apparatus mounts on a vehicle such as a small-sized vessel or an automobile, which is subject to turns and complex vibrations, traces a target such as a communications satellite with a directive antenna. Between a rotational shaft connected to a platform supporting an antenna and a stationery shaft connected to base to be carried on a vehicle, there is interposed as electric rotary coupling for transmitting power and signals necessary for a transmission signal and an attitude control, so that the platform 43 supporting the antenna 1 may continuously rotate with respect to the vehicle 27. Midway of a post 41, moreover, there is disposed a horizontal damping mechanism 70 which includes a laminate 75 and facial pressure apply means 76 for applying a facial pressure to a laminate 75, to effect a damping action which is excellent in durability and even in the horizontal direction.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1993Date of Patent: January 16, 1996Assignee: Furuno Electric Company, LimitedInventors: Asao Kitabatake, Naozumi Tamaoka, Hitoshi Ueda, Kenichi Wada
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Patent number: 5473335Abstract: A base support for a moveable antenna employing a stepping motor and stepping motor controller to move the antenna in fine increments. The base support is attached to an upstanding mounting member. An antenna is attached to a first support structure connected to a base member. The support structure is operatively connected to a worm gear assembly and motor driven worm gear disposed between the base member and the support structure to effect movement of the antenna about a predetermined axis. The worm gear is driven by a stepping motor. The stepping motor is controlled by a stepping motor controller to control incremental movement of the antenna. A second worm gear assembly can be interposed transversly between the first support structure and a second support structure to effect movements of the antenna about a horizontal axis. A second stepping motor and second stepping motor controller are used to drive the second worm gear and effect incremental movement of the antenna about the horizontal axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1994Date of Patent: December 5, 1995Inventor: John L. Tines
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Patent number: 5453753Abstract: A planar patch array antenna for satellite communications. The antenna includes a planar patch array and a dual axis positioner for rotating the array about azimuth and elevation axes. The dual axis positioner is unique in that it consists of a plurality of individual modules which can be easily assembled and disassembled. The positioner consists of the following modules: a fixed pedestal, an azimuth drive module, an azimuth rotary module, an RF/slip ring module, an elevation drive module, an antenna support and an electronic module. According to the invention, the pedestal remains fixed and the azimuth drive module is received in a recess defined by the pedestal. The azimuth rotary module is rotatably supported on the pedestal and is driven by the azimuth drive module so that it rotates about the vertical or azimuth axis. The elevation drive module is fixed to the rotary drive module and rotatably supports the antenna support module.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1993Date of Patent: September 26, 1995Assignee: Dorne & Margolin, Inc.Inventors: John M. Cosenza, Samuel Goldfarb, Shaun G. Moore
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Patent number: 5432524Abstract: A mechanically steerable antenna suitable for mobile earth stations of satellite communication systems comprises a support member mounted upon a base member and an active antenna element or array of elements mounted upon the support member. The antenna element or array of elements is rotatable about its boresight relative to the support member. The support member itself is rotatable in azimuth relative to the base member. The rotation axis of the antenna element or array of elements and the rotation axis of the support member are mutually inclined by a predetermined angle corresponding to the mean elevation angle of the satellite. The antenna includes drive means for rotating the support member relative to the base member, and a flexible coupling interconnects the base member and the antenna element.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1993Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of CommunicationsInventor: John T. Sydor
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Patent number: 5420598Abstract: The present invention relates to an antenna apparatus for a moving object. It comprises a casing mountable on a moving object and a base plate rotatably supported for rotation about a first rotary shaft which is fixed to the casing. A first drive is provided for rotatably driving the base plate about the first rotary shaft. An antenna unit includes a first antenna plate having a predetermined first beam axis, a second antenna plate having a predetermined second beam axis and connecting member for connecting the first and second antenna plates, with the first and second beam axes being oriented parallel to each other and with the antenna plates being positioned at a predetermined fixed offset distance between them along a line which is parallel to the first and second beam axes.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1992Date of Patent: May 30, 1995Assignees: Nippon Steel Corporation, System Uniques CorporationInventors: Masahiro Uematsu, Kazuo Kato
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Patent number: 5419521Abstract: A three-axis stabilized platform is disclosed wherein the azimuth, or train axis, a cross-level axis and an elevation axis intersect each other at a substantially common pivot point. Each axis supports a pivotable member which includes sensing and drive means for correcting the position of that member to maintain the direction of an antenna toward an aiming point in space. Azimuth post rotates or pivots about the azimuth or train axis and is cantilevered from a support base so that the post extends vertically and radially inwardly from the base to provide pivot supports at its outer end and in planes perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the plane of the azimuth axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1993Date of Patent: May 30, 1995Inventor: Robert J. Matthews
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Patent number: 5410327Abstract: A stabilized antenna mount system is described which includes an antenna subassembly, a means for allowing the subassembly to rotate in three dimensional planes, and a means for stabilizing the subassembly. The subassembly rotates by means of a multi-axis bearing and is stabilized with an inertia mass attached to its lower portion. The inertia mass has a weight approximately six times the combined weight of the subassembly and the multi-axis bearing.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1992Date of Patent: April 25, 1995Assignee: Crescomm Telecommunications Services, Inc.Inventors: Wallace Shakun, Richard A. Levy
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Patent number: 5396815Abstract: Gimballed scanning devices are an important aspect of space science. To achieve a scan pattern some means must be provided which impart to the devices an oscillatory motion. Various forms of machines have been employed for controllably conferring scan patterns on these scanning devices. Although they have included control moment gyroscopes, reaction wheels, torque motors, reaction control systems, and the like, rotating unbalanced mass (RUM) devices are a new and more efficient way to generate scans in gimballed devices or payloads. But they require power consuming and frequently complex auxiliary control systems to position and reposition the particular scan pattern relative to a target or a number of targets. Herein the control system is simplified. In the suspension system provided for payloads rotatably supported in gimbals payload rotation is restricted by a flex pivot so that the payload oscillates, moving in a scan pattern.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1993Date of Patent: March 14, 1995Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Michael E. Polites, Dean C. Alhorn
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Patent number: 5389940Abstract: An antenna pointing mechanism for a highly directional antenna which avoids the aforenoted problems. The mechanism including the antenna are rendered substantially immune to bending and play-induced movements resulting from vibration or the like, making it highly useful for land based vehicles, ships, and particularly for aircraft. It also provides the ability to point the antenna over elevational angles exceeding 180.degree., making it particularly useful for communication with satellites from aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1992Date of Patent: February 14, 1995Assignee: CAL CorporationInventor: Colin A. Sutherland
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Patent number: 5379048Abstract: An automatic tilt apparatus for use with electromagnetic emission testing devices. The apparatus enables the user to always bore-sight, that is, to point the antenna directly at the object being tested regardless of the height of the antenna. The apparatus utilizes a cam plate to achieve automatic tilting. A threaded rod, connected to the vertical drive mechanism of the testing device converts the rotary motion of the sprocket drive to a horizontal motion. The threaded rod is located within a boom that connects to the testing device. The linear, horizontal motion of the threaded rod causes a first bolt within a slot of the boom to move. A cam plate is attached to the carrier boom via the first bolt and a second bolt which is fastened through an arcuate slot in the cam. The motion of the first bolt causes the second bolt to follow the geometry of the acrucate slot, thus causing The cam plate to tilt in accordance with the vertical height of the testing device.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1993Date of Patent: January 3, 1995Assignee: The Electro-Mechanics CompanyInventor: Stephen R. Kaufman
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Patent number: 5359337Abstract: A stabilized antenna system is installed on a moving platform such as a ship to track a communication satellite. The antenna system examply employs either X1-Y-X2 or Y1-X-Y2 antenna mount. Rolling and pitching of the moving platform are offset by mechanically steering outside and intermediate axes, X1 and X, or Y1 and Y axes. The innermost axis is electronically steered to prevent instability which is caused by the mechanical steering, thereby improving reliability of the antenna system. The frame for rotatable supporting the array antenna is also supported by the radome rotatably. Further, the access hutch for maintainance is opened at the center of the radome and just below the array antenna.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 1991Date of Patent: October 25, 1994Assignee: Japan Radio Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kouichi Eguchi
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Patent number: 5337062Abstract: A deployable satellite antenna system permits an antenna with elevation and azimuth control to be mounted to the roof of a vehicle. The elevation control assembly for the antenna system has a base with two parallel tracks and a slider that moves along these tracks. The antenna is connected to a support frame pivotally attached to the slider. Pivot arms are pivotally attached between the reflector and the base adjacent to the parallel tracks. The elevational position of the antenna is adjusted by a motor that controls the position of the slider along the parallel tracks between a stowed position in which the antenna is stowed facing the vehicle and a deployed position in which the antenna is rotated to a maximum elevational angle. The azimuth of the antenna is controlled by a rotating assembly mounted to the roof of the vehicle beneath the base of the elevation control assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1992Date of Patent: August 9, 1994Assignee: Winegard CompanyInventors: William J. Sherwood, Charles E. Rodeffer
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Patent number: 5332187Abstract: An arrangement is provided for the adjusting of a mounting part on a carrier in a statically determined position which can be adjusted in a rotatory and translatory manner in three axes with respect to the carrier. The arrangement comprises at least three adjusting units which are arranged in an offset manner with respect to one another between the carrier and the mounted part, each of which comprises two connecting parts which can be translatorily adjusted relative to one another in two axes and are constructed to be rotatorily in three axes as well as translatorily in one axis freely movable sloped to the adjusting plane of the connecting parts.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1993Date of Patent: July 26, 1994Assignee: Deutsche Aerospace AGInventors: Arno Voit, Franz Sperber
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Patent number: 5313219Abstract: A stabilized antenna mount system is described which includes an antenna subassembly, a means for allowing the subassembly to rotate in three dimensional planes, and a means for stabilizing the subassembly. The subassembly rotates by means of a multi-axis bearing and is stabilized with an inertia mass attached to its lower portion. The inertia mass has a weight approximately six times the combined weight of the subassembly and the multi-axis bearing. Optionally, to counter the effects of the wind, a set of fins, with or without an aerodynamic upper housing, or a protective shield may be attached.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1992Date of Patent: May 17, 1994Assignee: International Tele-Marine Company, Inc.Inventors: Wallace Shakun, Richard A. Levy
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Patent number: 5245351Abstract: An orientation adjusting device for a satellite transmitting signal antenna comprising a housing inside of which an electromechanical actuation system comprising a worm gear-worm pair driven by a motor through a reduction gear set is disposed. A rotatable antenna seat which constitutes, in part, the housing is mechanically connected to the worm gear so as to be driven by the motor. The worm, of which one end is pivotally fixed on the housing, is biased toward the worm gear by biasing means so as to maintain a more precise engagement between the worm and the worm gear and to reduce the backlash associated therewith. Microswitches are provided inside the housing to control the rotation range of the antenna.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 1991Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Inventor: Hsiao-Feng Chou
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Patent number: 5227806Abstract: A stabilized antenna system. An inclination angle detector is mounted on an AZ frame and detects an inclination angle around an elevation, and the elevation of the antenna is controlled by a successive addition of the detected inclination angle to simplify control algorithm. Furthermore, the inclination angle detector includes a reciprocal combination filter for combining outputs of an inclinometer and a rate sensor. The reciprocal combination filter includes two reciprocal filters, and parameters of the reciprocal filters are adaptively controlled depending on frequency and amplitude of the inclination to ensure the reciprocity in a necessary frequency range.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1992Date of Patent: July 13, 1993Assignee: Japan Radio Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kouichi Eguchi
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Patent number: 5216431Abstract: A pedestal assembly for rotatably carrying a load containing radio-sensitive equipment is disclosed, with the assembly having a turntable and base. The profiles of the turntable and base adjacent to one another are both stepped and define a tortuous path between them. The assembly further is designed to distribute any attached load directly to a driven bull gear, rather than to the turntable.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1989Date of Patent: June 1, 1993Assignee: Scientific-Atlanta, Inc.Inventors: D. Edward Sinyard, Dietrich H. Hoecht, G. Harold Lindsey, Leroy Fuss, III
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Patent number: 5212493Abstract: The antenna system for direct broadcasting satellite reception is formed by a parabolic reflector associated with source means, the reflector being positioned and held by means of a supporting foot formed by a hollow, tubular body fixed at its upper part to the rear central zone of the reflector and hinged at its lower part to a pedestal around a horizontal axis to define the elevation of the antenna. The pedestal includes a rotationally movable part to define the azimuth of the antenna. The tubular body of the pedestal supports a section sufficient to contain all the circuits associated with the antenna.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1992Date of Patent: May 18, 1993Assignee: Thomson-LGT Laboratoire General Des Telecomm.Inventors: Claude Cluniat, Maurice Loiseau, Guy Bastard, Jean-Jacques Lombard
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Patent number: 5103236Abstract: An improved mount for parabolic or similar antennas which allows for easier and more precise positioning of the antennae while providing a secure mount. The antenna mount includes a strut support mount in a mount base which comprises a circular plate with two parallel flanges. The two parallel flanges each have a hole in approximately their center which line up with a pair of diametrically opposed holes in the strut support mount. A turnbuckle assembly further secures the mount base to the strut support mount. Also included is an antenna pivot which includes a worm wheel at its base and a structure for securing an antenna. The antenna pivot is rotatably mounted on the mount base. A worm bracket assembly is affixed to the mount base in a manner such that the worm within the worm bracket drivingly engages the worm wheel of the antenna pivot.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1989Date of Patent: April 7, 1992Assignee: Janiel CorporationInventor: Steve DuShane
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Patent number: 5089824Abstract: Attitude control is implemented by detecting the phase difference between signals received by at least two antennas and detecting the angle of deflection between the direction of arrival of radio signals and the antenna beams. By using antennas that are separately driven, within the plane of rotation in which the deflection angle is to be detected, the phase of the received signals can be shifted equivalently to when the antennas are driven as a consolidated unit. Also, when at least three antennas are used in an orthogonal arrangement for detecting the deflection angle in two directions, the antennas are divided into two groups which are individually driven. This reduces the inertia of the moving parts and enables the size and weight of the drive mechanisms to be reduced.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1989Date of Patent: February 18, 1992Assignees: Nippon Steel Corporation, Nemoto Project Industry Co., Nippoon Hoso KyokaiInventors: Masahiro Uematsu, Tetsumi Harakawa, Ryuichi Hiratsuka, Kenji Ohmaru, Shigeru Yamazaki, Yasuhiro Ito, Isao Nemoto, Kazuro Kato
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Patent number: 5075682Abstract: A single axis tracking system for a satellite moving in an inclined orbit. A linear antenna mount is used which is equipped for longitudinal tilt adjustment to enable an antenna to accurately track the longitudinal centerline of the figure 8 path of a satellite in an inclined orbit from any geographic location within the footprint of the satellite. The trajectory of the satellite is determined relative to the geographic location of the antenna mount. A time referenced tracking control signal moves the antenna mount. The signal from the satellite is periodically sampled and compared with stored values to verify the calculated trajectory. If a significant deviation occurs over a predetermined period, a new trajectory is automatically calculated and the time referenced trajectory signal is adjusted accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1990Date of Patent: December 24, 1991Inventor: Douglas K. Dehnert
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Patent number: 5025262Abstract: A helical-element antenna as part of a communication system is mechanically steered with reference to an azimuth axis and an elevation axis within a positioning envelope greater than hemispherical. The system for mechanically steering the helical antenna includes a supporting frame having an azimuth member with a longitudinal axis coinciding with the azimuth axis around which the antenna rotates. Further, the supporting frame includes an elevation member that is integral with the azimuth member and has a longitudinal axis displaced from the azimuth axis. An interface fitting rotatably mounts the antenna to the elevation member. The supporting frame is rotatably mounted to a pedestal base that has a plane perpendicular to the azimuth axis. To position the antenna about the azimuth axis, an azimuth steering unit is energized to rotate the supporting frame 360 degrees around the azimuth axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1987Date of Patent: June 18, 1991Assignee: E-Systems, Inc.Inventors: Mohamed A. Abdelrazik, John D. Martin, Boyd L. Corcoran
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Patent number: 4994815Abstract: In a satellite tracking control system, a receiver derives a pair of elevation (EL) and cross-elevation (XEL) tracking error signals having a quadratic relationship in a coordinate system from a signal received from a polar-orbital satellite. Elevation and cross-elevation motors are respectively controlled in response to the elevation (EL) and cross-elevation (XEL) tracking error signals. An azimuth controller derives an azimuth control signal from angle data representing the angles of the antenna about the azimuth, elevation and cross-elevation axes detected by angle detectors. Preferably, the antenna is rotatable about the elevation (EL) axis in the range between zero and 180 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1989Date of Patent: February 19, 1991Assignee: NEC CorporationInventor: Makoto Nakayama
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Patent number: 4968983Abstract: A radiation field characteristic measuring apparatus comprises a rotating device for rotating a tested object through the total solid angle thereof, and a device for receiving electromagnetic waves radiated from the object, thereby measuring electromagnetic field characteristics of the object with respect to the total solid angle. According to the present invention, almost all the components of the rotating device are formed of a nonmetallic material, and spaces to allow the passage of the electromagnetic waves are formed in the components of the rotating device. Thus, reflection and scattering of the electromagnetic waves are suppressed, so that the radiation field characteristics of the tested object, with respect to the total solid angle thereof, can be obtained with high accuracy. Also, the effective radiated power is measured with use of the arrival probability density function of radio waves as a weighting function.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1989Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Tadahiko Maeda
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Patent number: 4937587Abstract: A low profile, mechanical scan antenna having an aperture assembly and a travel guide assembly is disclosed. The aperture assembly is mounted on a carriage for movement along the travel guide assembly which is rotatably mounted for rotation about an azimuth axis. The travel guide assembly includes an arcuately shaped track and the aperture assembly and carriage move along the inside of the arcuately shaped track through the scanning angle. The arcuately shaped track defines an effective antenna gimbal axis which is in front of the antenna aperture.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1983Date of Patent: June 26, 1990Assignee: Hughes Aircraft CompanyInventor: George I. Tsuda
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Patent number: 4933681Abstract: A radar antenna of small overall dimensions is provided, placed in a belly radome, including a reflector of paraboloid shape of revolution about the longitudinal axis and integral with a case. This assembly is mounted for pivoting about the transverse axis and about the vertical axis inside the radome.Rotation about the longitudinal axis called roll axis is provided by rotating the transmission source by rotation means placed inside the case and the duct. With the reflector fixed in the roll direction, the area thereof may extend over the whole of the inner section of the radome, rotation of the radar beam along the roll axis being obtained through rotation of the source with respect to the reflector.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1987Date of Patent: June 12, 1990Assignee: Thomson-CSFInventor: Bernard Estang
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Patent number: 4918363Abstract: Power transmission and actuator apparatus especially advantageous in application to outdoor antennas, particularly TVRO parabolic antennas, to be operated by remote control, comprises a tub-shaped receptacle including a base having a peripherally encompassing relatively projected wall structure defining therewith a cavity, the major extent of the opening to the cavity being bridged by a releasably attached plate mounting a terminal strip adapted for connection thereto of a remote source of electrical energy, the base mounting a first integrated adapter for mounting a drive motor and a second for mounting an actuator assembly in a manner to provide for an inherent evacuation of water from each thereof during its use. The plate commonly mounts a perpendicularly related shaft and a multiplicity of control elements and the shaft has thereon a slip fit output gear in mesh with further gear means intermediate said plate and the base of the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1988Date of Patent: April 17, 1990Assignee: Venture Mfg. Co.Inventors: Russell E. Hollis, Paul R. Hollis
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Patent number: 4866456Abstract: A satellite antenna drive mechanism which includes a drive gear housing for reciprocally driving a satellite antenna dish. Generally, the satellite dish is supplied with a retaining bracket to which a U-shaped bow screw is mounted. The bow screw threadably engages the drive gear housing such that rotation of the drive gears causes a corresponding movement of the bow screw and the dish. The drive housing includes three meshed gears which cooperate to drive the bow screw. A first gear drive is connected to drive means for manually or mechanically driving the gears. An intermediate gear connects the first gear to a third internally threaded gear which receives the bow screw of the antenna dish. This third gear drive is positionally captured between the wall plates of the housing yet is free floating within the housing to provide smooth travel of the bow screw through the drive housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1986Date of Patent: September 12, 1989Assignee: Fulton Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Edward W. Ebey
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Patent number: 4833932Abstract: A stabilised mount (e.g. for an antenna) has two gyroscopic rotors mounted in such a way that they can pivot about orthogonal axes. Rewinding of the antenna (to avoid undue twisting of the electrical cables) is liable to cause a voilent destabilisation of the mount because of the gyroscopic action of the rotors. To prevent this destabilisation the rotors are locked against the aforementioned pivoting action during the rewinding procedure.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1987Date of Patent: May 30, 1989Assignee: The General Electric Company, p.l.c.Inventor: Neville Rogers
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Patent number: 4825218Abstract: A telecommunications antenna is provided with a reflector having a semi-offset geometry, a feed mounted on a feed source rigidly fixed to the reflector, an antenna pedestal for supporting the reflector and the feed. Positioning of the feed is such that, in respect of a reflector illumination half-angle .beta. as seen from the feed such that 45.degree.<.beta.<55.degree., the offset angle .alpha. (angle between the focal axis .DELTA..sub.Foc and the median ray of the total beam which is emitted by the feed and illuminates the reflector) is 25.degree.<.alpha.<35.degree., the antenna mount being of the azimuth-elevation type known as an az-el mount.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1987Date of Patent: April 25, 1989Assignee: Alcatel Thomason Faisceaux HertizenInventors: Eric Begout, Alain Bourgeois, Raymond Gueuret, Pascal Lapeyre
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Patent number: 4821043Abstract: A gyro-stabilized mechanism that is to be carried on a vehicle, such as a helicopter, is provided with a protective enclosure consisting of a dome, usually of glass fibre reinforced plastic. The dome must be provided with a window transparent to the radiation involved, and this must be steered with the mechanism so that they remain in register with one another. Prior art structures employ elongated windows of sufficiently large size to accommodate the tilting and rolling of the mechanism, while pan movements are accommodated by rotating the entire dome. The invention provides a structure employing a small window that can be steered or slaved with the mechanism by rotation of the part of the dome including the window relative to the other part, which has the pan or yaw rotation motor connected to it.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1987Date of Patent: April 11, 1989Assignee: Istec Inc.Inventor: John N. Leavitt
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Patent number: 4821047Abstract: Mounts for satellite tracking antennas or other devices. Mounts according to the invention aim antennas or other devices at various satellites along the geosynchronous satellite arc by creating a mechanical analog of that arc and forcing the axis of the antenna or device to rotate through the analogous arc. This is accomplished by fixing an Earth center analog point and mechanically constraining the axis of the antenna or device to rotate about a site-analog point which is located vertically a predetermined distance from the Earth center analog point. A rotating arm through which the axis of the antenna or device may pass swings the axis through an arc which is in a plane parallel to the Earth's equatorial plane and which has the Earth center analog point at its center and a radius of 6.611 times the predetermined distance between the Earth center analog point and the site-analog point. The arm may be rotated to aim the antenna or device at various satellites along the geosynchronous satellite arc.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1986Date of Patent: April 11, 1989Assignee: Scientific-Atlanta, Inc.Inventor: Thomas H. Williams
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Patent number: 4819007Abstract: A reflector-type microwave antenna includes a paraboloidal reflector and a feed horn located at the focal point of the reflector for launching microwave signals onto the reflector and receiving microwave signals from the reflector. A supporting frame for the reflector and feed horn includes three arms extending along the rear side of the reflector to three spaced mounting locations on the rear side of the reflector. The arms are fastened to the spaced mounting locations on the rear side of the reflector by fastening means having a loose condition in which the arm is attached to the reflector but free to move relative to the reflector, and a tightened condition in which the respective arm is rigidly attached to the reflector.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1987Date of Patent: April 4, 1989Assignee: Andrew CorporationInventor: Hulusi E. Tezcan
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Patent number: 4819002Abstract: An orienting and angular positioning device for the rotational axis of a rotatable load such as a dish antenna for the dynamic tracking of a non-stationary satellite is described. The antenna is supported on a support member which is rotatably mounted on one mounting plane of a wedge-shaped intermediate member which has two mounting planes which are inclined relative to one another at a predetermined angle A. The other mounting plane of the wedge is rotatably mounted to an inclined upper mounting plane of a fixed member. Releasable mechanisms are provided for holding the fixed member solidly connected with the support member and for holding the intermediate member solidly connected with the support member. A drive unit is fixed to the intermediate member and has a drive pinion engaged with a gear on the support member.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1986Date of Patent: April 4, 1989Assignee: Societe Nationale d'Etude et de Construction de Moteurs d'Aviation "S.N.E.C.M.A."Inventor: Marc J. Reboullet
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Patent number: 4819006Abstract: A mount for connecting a satellite television antenna to a pipe mast. The mount includes a support assembly of a linear upright member and a cross member which are adapted for attachment to a peripheral portion of a parabolic dish antenna and a fitting attached to a lower end of the upright member which connects with a pipe mast so as to enable or prevent rotation of the support assembly with respect to the mast axis and to enable or prevent varying the angle of inclination of the upright member with respect to vertical.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1986Date of Patent: April 4, 1989Assignee: Aluminum Company of AmericaInventors: Robert B. Whitesides, Lyle W. Hovland, Robert F. Crean
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Patent number: 4802640Abstract: A mechanical seeker for use in guided missiles utilizes two axes of rotation which are non-orthogonal to each other and to the longitudinal axis of the missile, and which converge at a point coincident with the center of mass of the antenna. This combination allows wide look angles of plus and minus 45 degrees or greater in a small envelope on the order of 5 inches or less in diameter.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1978Date of Patent: February 7, 1989Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventor: James B. Reid
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Patent number: 4786913Abstract: Universal waveguide joint, provided with at least two waveguide segments (1-7) slidable over each other, whereby one end of at least one of the waveguide segments (1-7) has a convex surface and the end of another respective waveguide segment, slidable over said convex surface, a concave surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1986Date of Patent: November 22, 1988Assignee: 501 Hollandse signaalapparaten B.V.Inventors: Albertus J. Barendregt, Marcellis J. A. Van Der Kemp
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Patent number: 4772892Abstract: A gimbal arrangement for supporting an antenna element steerable in pitch and yaw is shown to include a generally spherical bearing supporting such element, such bearing having a slot formed therein and aligned with the pitch axis to engage a pin affixed to the antenna element and a pitch and a yaw cam assembly independently actuable to steer the antenna element in pitch and yaw.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1984Date of Patent: September 20, 1988Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: John Payelian, Edward J. Jeye
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Patent number: 4761655Abstract: The antenna (e.g., a transportable, lightweight and cheap antenna for temporary earth stations) is constructed out of three components. The center component is a circular/parabolic dish. The side components extend the dish to give the composite a major diameter and a minor diameter. In use the antenna is aligned so that the major diameter is aligned with the direction of the geostationary arc.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1985Date of Patent: August 2, 1988Assignee: British Telecommunications plcInventor: Miles E. Butcher
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Patent number: 4733839Abstract: Gimbal comprised of four concentric cylindrical shells rotatively attached to each other by three pairs of bearings or flexures. The innermost shell is rigidly attached to a suspended instrument. The outermost shell is attached to a vehicle. Each of the three pairs of bearings are colinear and define three axes of rotation which intersect at a point. None of the three axes are coincidental with a line of sight emanating from the instrument, and two of them are nonorthogonal. The gimbal provides the instrument with freedom of rotation about any axis relative to the vehicle, including about the instrument's line of sight, without the line of sight being vignetted by a bearing or any other gimbal structure. The respective angles between the three axes of rotation are set to minimize the exposure of the gimbal to gimbal lock, as well as to minimize the onset of secondary disturbances that occur when gimbal lock is approached.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1986Date of Patent: March 29, 1988Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: James D. Gehris
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Patent number: 4696196Abstract: A stabilized platform which is suitable for stabilizing the bore-sight of a communications antenna or the like, is provided with a pendulous mounting which holds the structure erect. A pair of gyroscopes give active control of the attitude of the platform, and are coupled to the platform via a gear arrangement. When the platform is rotated rapidly (to unravel feed cables or to permit overhead tracking of the antenna) the gyroscopes experience a much lesser degree of movement which is determined by the gearing ratio, such that the gyroscopes are not destabilized.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1986Date of Patent: September 29, 1987Assignee: Marconi International Marine Company LimitedInventor: Svet O. Vucevic
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Patent number: 4692771Abstract: An antenna for receiving satellite broadcast television reception only (TVRO) programming, includes a main reflector dish, a pivot tube for pivotally mounting the reflector dish from a support, and an integrally formed azimuth track and drive comprising an arcuate track bolted to the back of the reflector dish with a trolley drive which engages the pivotal mount to drive the reflector dish along the azimuth to move the dish from satellite to satellite. The integral track and drive rides freely in the vertical direction on the pivotal mount to permit adjustment of the declination and elevation of the main reflector dish without disassembly or removal of the azimuth track and drive.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1985Date of Patent: September 8, 1987Assignee: Satellite Technology Services, Inc.Inventors: James N. Rothbarth, Edward W. Smith
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Patent number: 4675688Abstract: A rate sensor, preferably comprised of a tuned gyro, has a generally cylindrical outer housing and an inner, large diameter rotary cylindrical support defining the gyro's rotary axis. The rate sensing apparatus is mounted in the volume between the outer housing and the rotary cylindrical support whereby the interior of the rotary cylindrical support defines a large diameter hollow for receiving and supporting apparatus, other than rate sensing components of the rate sensor. The rate sensor may be advantageously used with a homing device, the seeker apparatus of the device being mounted in said hollow. This produces a homing device with a high packing density and, as the rotary axis of the gyro gimbals and that of the seeker coincide, detrimental unbalance and unwanted increase in inertial movement is eliminated.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 1986Date of Patent: June 23, 1987Assignee: NEC CorporationInventors: Hirokazu Sahara, Kiyoshi Nakayama
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Patent number: 4672385Abstract: Satellite tracking system for use between a ground mount and a satellite dish antenna and including the main components of a gear drive, a worm gear driven by a gear motor, and a coupling shaft connected between the gear and brackets supporting the antenna. The worm gear drive includes a potentiometer connected thereto providing a controller signal input. Limit switches can be provided for limiting the rotation of the antenna between prescribed limits. The worm gear drive provides direct shaft drive for accurate rotation through wide angles.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 1984Date of Patent: June 9, 1987Assignee: Mel-Du Inc.Inventor: Duane L. Prindle