High-Level Project Summary
The Catch-Based Decoupler system solves the problem of low-shock event decoupling in a relatively simple manner. The device comprises four hook-like arms, which are driven by a round rack gear. The more the rack gear is pulled back, the stronger the preload. When pushed on, the rack gear drives the arms, releases the upper piece, which in turn separates the two stages from each other. The rack gear itself can be driven by an electric solenoid of choice or a hydraulic piston. It is important because it allows for small devices to separate without a shock, decreasing the requirements for structural rigidity and allowing for finer components.
Link to Project "Demo"
Link to Final Project
Detailed Project Description
The mechanical device uses a system of a rack and pinions to drive arms, which hold the upper piece firmly in place. When a piston or other linear movement device presses on the central rack gear, the arms retract and the upper piece detached and separation is achieved. A small protrusion above the rack gear ensures that the other half of the device is pushed away cleanly and simply, and the ejection force can be changed by varying the speed of the rack gear as it moves upwards. It has the benefit of producing far less shock than pyrotechnic and shape-memory alloy devices and is fully resettable. This provides the advantage of our device being possible to test before use in deployment, and also allows it to be used in delicate applications where shock could damage other components. We hope to achieve its use on a spacecraft, because we think that it is an innovative solution to a widespread problem in the space industry. We used Autodesk Fusion 360 to 3D model the device.
Space Agency Data
We used the NASA pdf "Design, Development and Testing of the GMI Launch Locks" as an insight into the current state of decoupling in rockets, as we had no real knowledge of how this is done before embarking on this challenge.
Hackathon Journey
The Space Apps experience was a great problem-solving, team-building event for us. Me and my teammate have learned a lot about the process of design of a part for spacecraft and the considerations and design choices involved. I have further sharpened my 3D modelling skills, because we worked with mechanical, moving parts and gears, which I have never designed before. We have overcome many obstacles and tons of ideas and, as 11th grade students, we believe we have created a usable solution. We’re thankful to our school and Vaasa, who have kindly provided us with an opportunity to participate in this event.
References
Autodesk Fusion 360
Tags
#decoupling, #letitgo, #loveisriga
Global Judging
This project has been submitted for consideration during the Judging process.