Waveguide switches based on friction-free mechanisms
Programme
GSTP
Programme Reference
GT17-041EF
Prime Contractor
ALMATECH SA
Start Date
End Date
Status
Closed
Country
Switzerland
Objectives
The objectives of this activity are to investigate and develop advanced concepts for highly reliable RF waveguide mechanical switches.
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Description
Waveguide switches are extensively used in microwave systems for space. Mechanical switches are mostly used when a low number of actuation are required
such as performing redundancy for Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPAs), Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs) or selection between polarizations or antennas. Thanks to their excellent low insertion loss characteristics, mechanical waveguide switches are preferred.
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In the last years, longer lifetime for satellites in space but also extended on ground
storage for some Earth observation missions is required (e.g. MTG, METOP, etc.).
Switches manufacturers are investigating solutions to satisfy customer requirements in terms of lifetime operation due to risks such as contamination or degraded lubricant.
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In the last years mechanisms concepts based on pivots have been developed which the potential to replace traditional solutions based on bearing surfaces. The new solution perform friction-free, non-contamination and non-lubricant actuator which make the approach suitable for long lifetime missions.
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In this activity, waveguide microwave mechanical switches based on flexible pivot
shall be designed, manufactured and tested. As a proof of concept, two waveguide
switches (either different concept or different frequency bands) shall be selected.
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Aspects such as low loss, high power handling, thermal and mechanical performance together with an adequate material selection shall be carefully considered.
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In particular, the following tasks shall be performed:
- Review state of the art friction-free mechanisms with potential application for waveguide switches. Selection of most suitable concepts.
- Market assessment on waveguide RF switches and technical requirement definition.
- Feasibility study for the pre-selected concepts, supported, if required, by breadboarding of critical aspects. Selection of final concept(s).
- Detail design and analysis of the proposed switch concept(s).
- Manufacturing, assembly and testing of two breadboards.
;;;;;- ;Critical assessment of achieved results and way forward
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Application Domain
GEN-Generic Technologies
Technology Domain
6-RF Subsystems, Payloads and Technologies
Competence Domain
5-Radiofrequency & Optical Systems and Products
Initial TRL
TRL 2
Target TRL
TRL 5
Achieved TRL
TRL 4
Public Document
Final Presentation