Satellite builders have increased the accuracy of structure measurements
The technology of high precision contactless determination of satellite components parameters has been developed at RESHETNEV company (under ROSCOSMOS State Corporation umbrella).
The use of this technology makes it possible to enhance the accuracy of measurements of satellite components thermoelastic deformations such as solid-state, mesh, membrane reflectors, rods, frames, etc. This, in turn, shall improve the manufacturing quality of large-sized structures and increase the satellites reliability.
The technology has already been implemented at the enterprise. LiDAR and a photogrammetric system are used as measuring instruments.
LiDAR is placed outside the thermal vacuum chamber. The coordinates are determined through the porthole. The main task successfully solved by RESHETNEV engineers was to obtain absolute values during measurements. At the same time, it was necessary to take into account the difference in media (air, glass, vacuum) and changes in the trajectory of the laser beam to the object and back. To process this data, a special software has been developed. When using LiDAR, shape changes of up to several tens of microns are detected. Measurements of the parameters can be carried out at temperatures – 150 to + 150°C.
The photogrammetric system is located inside the test chamber. This measuring instrument operation is based on the processing of images obtained by digital cameras. This is the first time such a system has been used at a satellite building enterprise.
The company specialists have also developed algorithms for determining coordinates using LiDAR and photogrammetry. Both methods are listed in the National Register of Measuring Equipments.
Reshetnev Siberian State University of Science and Technology have partaken in the project. The university staff created a mathematical model and software for the operation of the LiDAR.
