Research instruments or sensors in scientific missions aboard spacecraft are often affected by magnetic and electric fields generated by onboard actuators, such as high-power radio communication devices and satellite attitude control systems using magnetic torque. These interferences directly impact the stability and accuracy of measurements in space. To mitigate these effects, "Deployable Mechanisms" have been developed to mechanically extend and isolate research instruments from the spacecraft bus system after deployment in space.
This innovation focuses on designing circular coiling booms using Nickel Titanium Alloy, a flexible engineering material with shape-memory properties. These booms extend by exploiting the material's elastic behavior upon deployment in space. Ground-based testing structures are also being designed to simulate space conditions, study material recovery behavior, and analyze structural system performance using engineering theories. This ensures durability and stability under operational conditions.
The deployable mechanism aims to enable researchers and engineers to collaboratively develop subsystems under international initiatives like the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).
Objectives:
- To design and study deployable mechanisms for spacecraft instruments using coiling boom systems, including virtual space environment testing for durability, stability, and recovery behavior of flexible metallic materials.
- To test installation processes, validate engineering hypotheses, and improve methods for developing deployable mechanisms for spacecraft mission instruments.
Specifications
The system is designed with a compact structure that can be stored within a limited volume of approximately 220 x 220 x 200 millimeters (W x L x H). It includes a mounting unit for test equipment positioned at the tip of the deployable mechanism. To simulate a zero-gravity, frictionless environment, the system is installed on a horizontal frictionless rail with a counterweight balancing mechanism.
- Length when fully deployed: Up to 1.6 meters
- Length after compression: Less than 10% of the fully deployed length
- Structure Analysis: Axial forces from internal and external loads are analyzed and simulated.
- Deployment Mechanism: Features controlled deployment and consistent damping, enabling data collection on angular velocity and compression forces. This data supports the evaluation of structural durability and stability.
- Positioning System: Equipped with sensors to measure orientation, angular velocity, and acceleration.
Market Context
- Availability: Not available on the market.
- Estimated Market Value: Over 5,000,000 THB
- Production Cost: Approximately 1,000,000 THB
Potential for Innovation and Commercial Expansion
This technology can be further developed for applications in various fields, including:
- Solar Sail Deployment Mechanisms: For space exploration missions.
- Extension Mechanisms for Modern Textile Industries: Enhancing manufacturing processes.
- Parallel Robotic Mechanisms: For advanced robotics and automation systems.
Development Team
- Project manager
Dr. Peerapong Torteeka
NARIT - System Engineer
Shariff Manuthasna
NARIT - GNC Engineer
Thanayuth Panyalert
NARIT - Aerospace Engineer
Popefa Charoenvicha
NARIT - Aerospace Engineer
Tanawish Masri
NARIT - Mechatronics Engineer
Pakorn Khonsri
NARIT - Mechanical Engineer
Samattachai Tanun
NARIT - Mechanical Engineer
Auychai Laoyang
NARIT - Mechanical Engineer
Teerawat Kuha
NARIT - Mechanical Engineer
Worawat Somboonchai
NARIT - Mechanical Engineer
Likhit Maimun
NARIT - Mechanical Engineer
Peeradon Ooktan
NARIT - Engineering Advisor
Dr. Potiwat Ngamkajornwiwat
PIM - Internship Engineer
Artitaya Manosri
PIM - Internship Engineer
Papop Phuttipongsit
CMU
Contact Information
Dr. Peerapong Torteeka
Project Manager
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]