Electro-Mechanical System Design and Implementation for an Automated Radio Telescope

This paper presents a complete design, build, and test of the electro-mechanical system of an automated radio telescope with a 4.5-meter diameter dish. This radio telescope is remotely controlled and accessible for auto-tracking and auto-locating. The mechanical system consists of a triangular counter balance, elevation and azimuth gear assemblies, post, and a cover. The electrical system consists of a motor control unit, programmable logic controller, power supplies, motors, sliprings, and a sensor network. This paper describes the component level design of the electro-mechanical system and their integration with the sensor network and control room software. Laboratory test results with appropriate loading are provided to validate the electromechanical system design.