Photo Essay: Power Cable Drive
The principle of cable positioning is simple: both solar arrays are literally tied together using a cable, so that both turn in perfect tandem. A counterweight is mounted on one side of the cell.
The cable is positioned using a computer-driven battery-powered screwdriver, by winding it up and letting it out.
Disassembled battery powered screwdriver on the bench
Wiring up a controller circuit for the battery powered screwdriver
Detail: soldering leads to the controller board
Calibrating signals and voltages between controller and screwdriver
Leads attached to the screwdriver motor
The motor returns to its housing, leads attached
Top view of controller board, with leads attached
