Developing Communication Link Analysis Tools
Faculty Mentor Name
John M. Pavlina
Format Preference
Oral and Poster Presentation
Abstract
What good is a satellite if we are not able to communicate with it? Over the last few years there has been an increase in the number of satellites being put into orbit. These satellites are typically CubeSats, which are ten centimeter cube satellites that are placed into low Earth orbit. These satellites offer a low-cost platform for universities to perform experiments in space. One key component of the satellite’s design is the communication system. Without an adequate communication system, a communication link between the satellite and a ground station is nearly impossible. Through development of analysis methods that can be used during the design phase, investigation and refinement may be performed prior to building or launch. Two tools being utilized for analysis are ANSYS HFSS and STK. ANSYS FHSS allows for 3D modeling of the antenna’s radiation pattern. The patterns can then be analyzed for directionality and strength based upon the location on the satellite. STK is used to model communications of the satellite once it is in orbit. The orbit and parameters such as tumble can be simulated to determine when the satellite has line of sight communication. From line of sight a full link budget can be calculated as well. The resultant tools and methods developed for performing communication link analysis will be able to be used for future projects as well. Future communication designs can be modeled and simulated in order to ensure performance and refine the design.
Ignite Grant Award, Invited oral presentation
Location
AC1-ATRIUM
Start Date
3-31-2017 11:00 AM
End Date
3-31-2017 3:00 PM
Developing Communication Link Analysis Tools
AC1-ATRIUM
What good is a satellite if we are not able to communicate with it? Over the last few years there has been an increase in the number of satellites being put into orbit. These satellites are typically CubeSats, which are ten centimeter cube satellites that are placed into low Earth orbit. These satellites offer a low-cost platform for universities to perform experiments in space. One key component of the satellite’s design is the communication system. Without an adequate communication system, a communication link between the satellite and a ground station is nearly impossible. Through development of analysis methods that can be used during the design phase, investigation and refinement may be performed prior to building or launch. Two tools being utilized for analysis are ANSYS HFSS and STK. ANSYS FHSS allows for 3D modeling of the antenna’s radiation pattern. The patterns can then be analyzed for directionality and strength based upon the location on the satellite. STK is used to model communications of the satellite once it is in orbit. The orbit and parameters such as tumble can be simulated to determine when the satellite has line of sight communication. From line of sight a full link budget can be calculated as well. The resultant tools and methods developed for performing communication link analysis will be able to be used for future projects as well. Future communication designs can be modeled and simulated in order to ensure performance and refine the design.
Ignite Grant Award, Invited oral presentation