When a major university in South Korea set out to build a 21 metre deep space antenna, the researchers required a control system that could track celestial objects with pinpoint accuracy, a level of precision they thought was out of reach. By partnering with Rockwell Automation and its signature PartnerNetwork, they discovered that the right technology and support could turn their vision into reality.
How often do you think about black holes? Stars? The mysteries of deep space? If you’re a researcher at a major research University in South Korea, it’s a lot. Researching celestial bodies requires high-performing instruments. That’s why when the university needed to construct a fourth deep space antenna, it turned to Systems Interface, a Gold-Level system integrator member of the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork, for this pioneering project.
The challenge
This project was unique from the start. The university wanted a new antenna that could perform as well as the first three. Given that the previous antennas were commissioned years ago, building a new one required updated equipment with high levels of customisation. “I don’t think there’s any corporation that could do what the university wanted − to replicate the existing antennas,” said Curits Plett, vice president of engineering at Systems Interface. “The customer wanted a system that matched the previous systems, but wanted it updated with current servo drive offerings while keeping the overriding motion control interface the same. An OEM might refuse to deviate from its standard offering. System integrators like Systems Interface, however, can bring tremendous value by being able to develop custom solutions for their customers.”
Obsolete equipment
The existing deep space antennas had outdated Kinetix 7000 drives and legacy servo motion technology, which were becoming obsolete. Systems Interface needed to use modern hardware on the new antenna while ensuring that its performance of the new antenna matched that of the previous antennas.
Precise control
Operating at very slow velocities, the antenna required precise tracking of celestial targets such as stars and black holes. Systems Interface had to develop a motion control system capable of tracking these targets accurately while maintaining responsiveness to slow signals from outer space.
“It wasn’t just simple motion control,” said Plett. “It was motion control to a highly calculated and precise position. A high-level motion control system using 29-bit encoders uses feedback from these encoders to close position loops, which ensures precise positioning and movement. Celestial calculations allow the antenna to be point at the object. The frequency of the antenna is used to fine-tune the position and then track the celestial target across the sky overnight.” To achieve this, Systems Interface leveraged a combination of cutting-edge hardware, its own domain expertise, and the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork.
The solution included state-of-the-art technology, featuring the ControlLogix 5580 Controller and Kinetix 5700 Servo Drive control system which orchestrated precise movements with its four Kinetix MPL low-inertia motors. The solution also used the Allen Bradley PanelView operator interface to enable visualisation and control, as well as various Rockwell Automation components.
Combining expertise
The successful completion of the deep space antenna would not have been possible without the rich ecosystem of the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork. Strategic partnerships, with distributors like North Coast and Rockwell Automation technology consultants facilitating the selection and procurement of essential components. For example, a Rockwell Automation technology consultant helped Systems Interface get the bill of materials right. Additionally, the extensive domain expertise of the Systems Interface team enabled them to devise innovative solutions, such as working with technology partner Profibus to transition from ControlNet to Profibus communication for enhanced reliability and supportability.
The result
In late 2023, the construction of the 21 metre antenna was successfully concluded, bolstered by Rockwell Automation technology, including four servo motors capable of reaching an impressive maximum speed of 3° per second. This milestone allowed the antenna to capture its inaugural astrological images, commonly referred to as First Light.
Transformative impact
The antenna’s performance exceeded expectations, showcasing seamless functionality without requiring any additional support during startup. The expertise of Systems Interface and its collaboration with Rockwell Automation ensured the seamless operation of the antenna. The project has contributed to a deeper understanding of the galaxy for students and professionals, leading to many astronomy publications for the university, and a giant leap forward in technological innovation.
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