Steamech

Universal Event | Let It Go (Without A Bang)

Pneumatic Line Cutter(PeLiC)

High-Level Project Summary

We developed a device capable of cutting the parachute cables safely, quickly, and without exposing our device so much but most importantly, without using pyrotechnics and using the specific considerations outlined in the challenge objectives.Our system solves the problem by means of a pneumatic circuit, which works with the barometer of the main system, which is activated according to the atmospheric pressure due to the height and by means of four shear lines, which provide a better balance.The development of our device lies in its versatility, safety, and reusability, as well as its high resistance to pressure and internal forces, which makes it quite useful for these cases.

Link to Project "Demo"

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1x3CdghHxZB9jEGkq3QpPivn8O57GBzv8stHCWbuKyxg/edit?usp=sharing

Link to Final Project

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eMIriRX0-s0VYx9Y1iOyJLN-R5n-TDvzjHkhhPIo2E4/edit?usp=sharing

Detailed Project Description

To develop this project we used the software of AutoCAD and ANSYS. AutoCAD was used to create a 2D and 3D drawing with the dimensions of the design. ANSYS was used to test the design in different aspects like static and thermal analysis.

The purpose of this project is to be able to cut the reefing lines of a parachute without the use of explosives as well that the device can be used more than once. The way it would work is then when it reaches a specific atmospheric pressure, the barometer on the device will send a signal to the valves to open set the reefing lines free and for the parachute to open.

To withstand the conditions set forth by the challenge, our device will incorporate two different materials; normalized SAE-AISI 4140 steel and AISI 1018 mild/low carbon steel. The mechanical properties of the steel can be seen in the figure below. More details about the material can be found at [1] and [2].

The design will work on the principle of dynamical forces and will use the barometer already onboard the landing vehicle.

The barometer will be connected to a hydraulic circuit that operates 4 valves that activate the system. When the desired height is reached, there would be a specific atmospheric pressure, and the barometer would sense this pressure. When this desired pressure is reached, the barometer will send a signal to the valves to open and let the lines go to open the parachute.

Our device was designed according to the constraints suggested by the challenge and proper simulations were done to validate its capabilities. We were able to hit most of the proposed targets set by the challenge. Our device conforms to the recommended minimum sizing. There are no additional debris generated when the mechanism is activated. All parts remain attached to the device or the parachute tethers. One of the best features of having a hydraulic system is the elimination of parts replacement. The use of a hydraulic circuit makes reuse an easy affair. Based on the analysis, our design should work for the specified temperature range.

Here are some images of our simulation and final design testing (maxima force applied: 2000N):

Space Agency Data

We used the documentation that was presented in the "resources" section, we obtained data such as the height at which these mechanisms are executed and how they are implemented, as well as we saw the advantages and disadvantages of the existing mechanisms to be able to see their disadvantages and generate new ideas in this regard, hence we had to investigate more about them in documents in order to implement design characteristics that were in accordance with what was recommended, so we had to thoroughly investigate how the mechanisms of these dimensions acted to propose once again make it more effective.

Hackathon Journey

For us it was something very exciting as well as demanding since we are from three different countries whose hours vary from two to eleven hours; Therefore, the hours of continuous work varied, although even with that difficulty, we took the reins and learned to use advanced simulation software, which facilitated the calculations, since we all had engineering knowledge, we considered that our ideas were quite solid and Based on the simulation, as well as the resolution of doubts, they were answered through our logic and analysis of specific situations that would allow us to advance in a staggered way in this way, we hope that our design idea will be used or innovated to implement it in future releases.