Development of technological equipment for autonomous testing of the shaping structure of the umbrella reflector

A shaping structure is element in most transformable reflectors to ensure the required accuracy of the reflective surface. An umbrella reflector shaping structure is a system of tensioned dimensionally stable cords in the open position. External factors influence the cords of the shaping structure, which lead to a change in the length of the cords throughout the entire life cycle of the product. It is advisable to assess the stability of the geometric dimensions of the cords, from the point of view of labor intensity, on a piece of the shaping structure – the arch system. To conduct this kind of research, there is a need to develop special technological equipment. The article considers the requirements for technological equipment and testing. The authors propose an original design of technological equipment, which allows fixing the cords of the arch system with boundary conditions similar to a real reflector. The paper describes a 3D model of the technological equipment, on the basis of which a prototype was made. The prototype ensured the assembly of a separate arch system corresponding to the standard design in terms of size, configuration and cord tension. Tests were carried out to assess the measurement error of the arch system in the manufactured experimental model. The test results confirmed the possibility of using the developed technological equipment for component tests of the shaping structure.