Ft. Huachuca, AZ
Electronic Space Systems Corporation, Compact Range Reflector
Scope/Solutions
The Electronic Space Systems Corporation and Georgia Tech Research Institute sought to construct a highly accurate compact range reflector at the U.S. Army Electronic Proving Ground that would maintain a surface accuracy of 0.007 in. rms under the harsh wind and thermal conditions of the high desert of southern Arizona. SGH designed the structure and consulted on lifting procedures for the 75 ft dia. offset parabolic reflector.
The structure comprises the following components:
- A backstructure consisting of a rectilinear grid of steel trusses mounted on two legs and three backstays
- 134 reflecting panels arranged in a fan-shaped pattern which radiate from the vertex of the paraboloid on the front of the structure
- Panels mounted on radial stringers supported on inclined beams arranged in a chevron pattern for an efficient transition from the fan-shaped panels to the rectilinear backstructure
- 192 serrated panels around the circumference of the surface that protrude beyond the perimeter of the backstructure
- Louvers and insulated panels covering the rear and sides of the trusses to shield direct sun and permit free circulation of air through the structure
Highlights of SGH’s work on this project include the following:
- Designed the reflector to be assembled in the horizontal position and aligned the panels in the horizontal orientation with allowances for structural deformations that would occur as the reflector was lifted by cranes to its near vertical final position
- Designed all structural elements for final environmental loads
- Designed special outriggers, braces, and pivoting joints to allow for the erection procedure
Photo courtesy of Georgia Institute of Technology
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Project Summary
1987
Completion Date
Solutions
New Construction
Services
Advanced Analysis
Markets
Science & Defense
Client(s)
L-3 Communications
Specialized Capabilities
Science & Defense | Computational Mechanics
Additional Projects
West
U.S. Border Crossing Stations
SGH developed innovative blast-resistant wall designs for the new building using a composite cold-formed steel stud wall system at a fraction of the cost of more traditional blast-resistant systems.
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In a two-phase project, SGH provided assessment and design services for Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC (BEA), which operates the facility for the Department of Energy.