PROBLEM DEFINITION

The NPOI array consists of ten siderostats, four of which are currently in use. These four are enclosed by structures with sliding roofs. The remaining six siderostats can be placed at one of thirty locations, with no more than three placed along any one arm of the interferometer at one time. In order to utilize the remaining six siderostats, a protective cover mechanism must be designed to protect them from possible harm caused by precipitation and blowing debris. At a cost of $250,000 per siderostat, safekeeping is of utmost importance. Because of unexpected weather and other unforeseen dangers, it would be desirable to have the siderostat covers be fully automated with manual override, so a single person could operate them quickly and efficiently.

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