Thermo-Mechanical Magnetic Coupler for Satellite Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite mounting systems require complex mechanisms with multiple moving parts, leading to reliability issues and inability to autonomously assemble or adaptively reconfigure, which is not suitable for small satellites like CubeSats.
Innovation Solution
A thermo-mechanical magnetic coupler using electro-permanent magnets (EPMs) with reversible flux paths to facilitate heat transfer and mechanical coupling between satellites, allowing for adaptive reconfiguration and autonomous assembly without moving parts or power consumption during static operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical fasteners or pins are used to connect satellites, then high contact forces and thermal conductivity are achieved, but the system requires complex mechanisms with multiple moving parts reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical fasteners and pins with a magnetic coupling system that uses magnetic forces to achieve connection and thermal conduction. The magnetic coupling device includes magnets that create magnetic fields to hold satellites together without physical contact, eliminating the need for mechanical fastening mechanisms and their associated moving parts, thereby improving reliability while reducing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between satellites to transmit both mechanical holding force and thermal energy. The magnetic coupling device acts as a mediator that transfers heat through the magnetic field and associated thermal pathways without requiring direct mechanical contact, thus simplifying the system while maintaining thermal conductivity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical fastening systems are used, then stable satellite connection is achieved, but autonomous assembly and adaptive reconfiguration become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system replaces complex mechanical fastening and torquing mechanisms with a simpler magnetic attraction system. The magnets naturally align and attract satellites together without requiring complex installation tools or procedures, enabling autonomous assembly. The system allows adaptive reconfiguration by simply changing the magnetic field configuration or position of the magnetic coupling devices.
3Reliability
If multiple electromechanical devices with moving parts are used, then mounting functionality is achieved, but system reliability decreases due to potential failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromechanical devices with moving parts with a passive magnetic coupling system. The magnets create holding forces without requiring continuous energy input or having moving parts that can fail. The system uses permanent magnets or electromagnets that maintain their magnetic field without continuous energy consumption, eliminating the reliability issues associated with mechanical wear and electrical failures in moving parts.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The magnetic coupler provides reliable and efficient thermal management by transferring heat between satellites, maintaining satellite position and enabling adaptive lattice formations without the need for complex mechanisms or power, enhancing longevity and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic coupler for an electromagnetic mooring system includes at least two magnets, of which at least one is an electro permanent magnet (EPM)
Implementation Method 2
Depending on the polarity of the at least two magnets, a heat path may flow between the at least two magnets or flow outwards from the at least two magnets
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic mooring system (MMS) that includes a first object and a second object, at least one of which includes an electronic coupler configured to connect the first object with the second object. The electronic coupler comprises a pair of magnets, at least one of which is an electro permanent magnet (EPM), having a flux path. When the electronic coupler is in the ON states, the flux path moves towards the first or second object transferring heat from the first or second object to the second or first object, and when the electronic coupler is in the OFF state, the flux paths moves towards the EPM.