High-Level Project Summary
we developed a system using motors and HDRMs to allow for the clean and smooth transition for disconnecting the satellite or payload from the delivery system. It solves the problem of allowing the satellite to disconnect without the use of pyrotechnics or explosive charges. It's important as high shock can damage the satellite and its systems as well as limiting space debris.
Link to Project "Demo"
Link to Final Project
Detailed Project Description
The device allows for a low-shock release and separation from the delivery system. Using the reefer lines are held by a screw, on the other side, the screw is being held by a rotation device, such as a DC motor. When prompted, the device(dc motor in this case rotates), unscrewing the screw, releasing the lines. The motor can be triggered by a plc timer to go off after a certain amount of time after the payload covering is removed. The DC is surrounded by a layer of heaters to adjust temperature, so it doesn't freeze nor melt and the bolts conduct temperature from the heaters, so they are also unlikely to freeze/melt. Further addition can be made with the use of a HDRM. An HDRM is a Hold Down and Release Mechanism.
Attaching a HDRM to the body of the satellite/payload and other parts that need to be held in place during launch with the reefing lines. Once triggered by the motor the reefing lines would be pulled from the anchors of the HDRM for a low-shock transition
Thus limiting the possible damage to the satellite/payload and space debris.
Space Agency Data
https://www.glenair.com/space-mechanisms/a.htm
https://www.ebad.com/nea-hold-down-release-mechanisms-hdrm/
Hackathon Journey
It was fun to get to meet people from different places and discuss and problem solve with them. I choose this challenge as I found it very interesting to try to problem-solve. Initially, my approach was to look at the military weapon systems of bombers as they release payloads without the use of explosives and try to invert it since in space gravity doesn't really work the same way as you are leaving.
References
https://www.glenair.com/space-mechanisms/a.htm
https://www.ebad.com/nea-hold-down-release-mechanisms-hdrm/
Global Judging
This project has been submitted for consideration during the Judging process.