Satellite Dispenser Two-Layer Radial Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for launching multiple small artificial satellites are inefficient in using the volume under the fairing of a launcher, limiting the number of satellites that can be launched simultaneously and increasing costs when satellites exceed certain size constraints.
Innovation Solution
Arranging satellites in two layers around a dispenser with mechanical interfaces of different radial extensions, allowing for a more efficient use of the fairing volume by optimizing the radial fixation of each layer, enabling the simultaneous launch of a greater number of satellites with increased dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If satellites are arranged in a single layer around the dispenser, then the arrangement is simple, but the volume utilization under the fairing is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-layer arrangement to a two-layer arrangement around the dispenser, utilizing the longitudinal dimension more effectively. The second layer is positioned such that satellites extend beyond the first layer in the longitudinal direction, thereby filling the available fairing volume more efficiently and increasing the number of satellites that can be launched simultaneously.
2Device complexity
If mechanical interfaces have uniform radial extension, then the structure is simple, but the volume capacity for larger satellites is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanical interfaces with different radial extensions at different locations around the dispenser. Specifically, the second layer uses interfaces with greater radial extension than the first layer, allowing satellites in the second layer to extend further in the longitudinal direction. This local differentiation enables more efficient packing and increases the overall volume capacity of the fairing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for arranging a plurality of spacecraft comprises the following steps: arranging a first layer of spacecraft around a dispenser; fixing the spacecraft of the first layer to the dispenser using mechanical interfaces extending in a radial direction; arranging a second layer of spacecraft around the first layer and the dispenser, the spacecraft of the second layer being arranged that they extend beyond, in a longitudinal direction of the fairing, the spacecraft of the first layer which are interposed between them and the dispenser; fixing the spacecraft of the second layer to the dispenser using mechanical interfaces extending in a radial direction over a distance greater than that of the mechanical interfaces of the first layer; and arranging the assembly thus obtained, under the fairing of a launcher. Assembly of spacecraft that can be obtained by the method and a dispenser suited to the assembly is provided.