Shape control of membrane reflector with electrostatic forming

A high accuracy membrane reflector shape control approach is presented in this paper. Based on the electrostatic forming theory, the shape of the membrane reflector can be corrected by adjusting the voltages on electrodes which are attached to the mesh reflector as a foundation. An analytical model of the system is deduced based on the virtual work principle, including the membrane reflector, electrodes and controller. Distortions caused by external disturbances are dealt with this method and the feasibility of this control system is demonstrated by numerical simulations.