Development, integration, and testing of a nano-satellite coupling mechanism using shape memory alloy for an interference joint
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Authors
Perez, Alberto Oscar
Subjects
Shape Memory Alloy
SMA
Nickel Titanium
NiTi
Nichrome wire
press-fit
interference joint
austenite
twinned martensite
detwinned martensite
CubeSat
non-explosive actuation
AL 7075-T6
polycarbonate.
SMA
Nickel Titanium
NiTi
Nichrome wire
press-fit
interference joint
austenite
twinned martensite
detwinned martensite
CubeSat
non-explosive actuation
AL 7075-T6
polycarbonate.
Advisors
Romano, Marcello
Newman, James H.
Date of Issue
2012-12
Date
Dec-12
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis contains the results of a complete redesign effort, including development, integration, and experimental testing of a very small mechanical coupling mechanism. This mechanism is suitable for nano-satellites and uses a shape memory alloy (SMA) ring, press-fit into a metallic bushing to create a releasable interference joint. A detailed explanation of the techniques used to press-fit the SMA ring into the metallic bushing is included along with a description of why the SMA ring shrinks to its austenite phase upon heat activation and how it decouples from the metallic bushing. The couplingengineered to be as small as one tenth of a cubic centimeteris capable of achieving holding strengths in excess of 135 N (30 lbf). SMA characteristics and current release mechanisms are explained and tests are conducted to validate the holding strength achieved by the interference joint between the SMA and the metallic bushing. The design and part selection for each component of the Engineering Design Unit (EDU) is documented and launch conditions simulated to test the EDUs performance, releasability, and to validate the static holding force. Finally, this thesis describes the simulated integration of the EDU into a 3U CubeSat structure.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.