Multipoint Payload Release System With Networked Firing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current networked initiation systems for launch vehicles are limited in the number of payloads they can deploy due to the restricted number of communication channels, which restricts the scalability and flexibility in deploying multiple payloads simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A networked initiation system with a control unit and multiple firing control units connected via an interface bus, allowing for selective operation of hold-down and release mechanisms (HDRMs), including both non-energetic and energetic types, enabling unique addressing and two-way communication, thereby enabling the deployment of multiple payloads in various sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional networked initiation systems with limited communication channels are used, then system complexity is reduced, but the number of deployable payloads is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into multiple independent firing control units, each capable of controlling specific HDRMs. This segmentation allows the system to manage multiple payloads through distributed control rather than requiring a monolithic complex system, thereby increasing payload capacity while managing complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical control architecture that adds a dimensional layer between the central control unit and individual HDRMs. Firing control units act as intermediate controllers, creating a multi-level control dimension that enables scalable management of numerous payloads without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication channels are implemented for each payload, then the number of deployable payloads increases, but system wiring complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple communication functions are merged into a single interface bus that serves all firing control units and HDRMs. Instead of providing separate dedicated communication channels for each payload, the system combines power, data, and control signals into a shared bus architecture, thereby reducing wiring complexity while maintaining the ability to communicate with multiple payloads
Solution Approach 2:
The interface bus is designed as a universal communication medium that performs multiple functions: transmitting power, carrying data, enabling addressable communication, and supporting two-way communication protocols. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated channels for each function, reducing overall system wiring while maintaining full payload control capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional initiation systems are used, then system weight is reduced, but the ability to add or remove devices without reconfiguration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic addressable communication where firing control units can be individually identified and controlled through the interface bus without physical reconfiguration. This dynamic addressing capability allows the system to adapt its control architecture to accommodate adding or removing HDRMs and firing control units while maintaining operational functionality, though the patent does not provide specific weight reduction mechanisms
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
This solution allows for the scalable and flexible deployment of multiple payloads by enabling unique addressing and communication with a large number of HDRMs, simplifying system wiring, reducing weight and power requirements, and enhancing the system's ability to add or remove devices without reconfiguration, thus overcoming the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
A non-energetic HDRM is one that typically utilizes an activation mechanism such as a fuse wire or link wire that heats and weakens on command from a control unit when an amount of electrical current passes through the wire, thereby causing it to melt and break
Data Source
AI summary
Networked initiation systems for hold-down and release mechanisms (HDRMs) are described. The systems include a control unit, a plurality of firing control units operably connected to and in communication with the control unit, wherein each firing control unit has at least one HDRM operably connected thereto, and wherein each firing control unit is individually addressable by the control unit over an interface bus to enable selective operation of the HDRMs operably connected to the firing control units.