Custom Fresnel satellite Dishes

I think the potential for personal production will be best demonstrated by things that MUST be customized.

Here's one idea:

Flat, fresnel-principle satellite dishes, customized to your location and the surface you want to mount it onto (typically your roof, but it could be a wall).

Accurately measure the orientation and angle of the surface you wish to mount the "dish" on. Software calculates the precise 3D angle the dish needs to aim at. Enter your precise longitude and latitude, as well as the geo-synch satellite's longitude. Software then calculates and generates a fresnel reflector design, then segments it if it has to be made in smaller pieces. Print the parts. Fasten the parts to a weather proof backing and fasten the whole in place.

Note: surfaces must be smooth at microwave wavelengths!

Um... don't they also have to be conductive?

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Hell, there are no rules here - we're trying to accomplish something.

Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.

Thomas A. Edison

Well, there are flat satellite antennas already (p.e. the BAS 65 by kathrein [www.kathrein.de])

And there are pretty small wallmounts too... I don't see a reason for reinventing the wheel here.

Oh by the way, you can add decals to make those antennas almost invisible
An example by another company:


'sid