Pose optimization of the FAST feed support system based on the new feed cabin mechanism

摘要

The Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope(FAST) is the largest and most sensitive single-dish radio telescope in the world and has made many important scientific achievements in a few years. Given the enormous scientific research potential of the Milky Way center, it is necessary to enhance the observation zenith angle as close to the Milky Way center as possible. In this regard, a new mechanism for the feed cabin is proposed with cables and sliders, which is lighter in weight and larger in the workspace. This paper will introduce this new feed cabin and the whole feed support system and establish their mechanical models to optimize the relevant control parameters, making FAST achieve an observation zenith angle of at least 50°with satisfying the required constraints. It indicates that the new mechanism designed by the FAST team can be used for the FAST upgrade and the future FAST array project.