Segmented Separation Nut With Bearing Elements for Low-Shock Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Separation devices for spacecrafts generate high shock levels due to internal locking device impacts, posing risks to payloads and dispenser bodies, especially in smaller spacecraft with restricted packing volumes and shorter shock distances.
Innovation Solution
A separation device with a nut divided into multiple portions locked by a locking mechanism that moves between locking and releasing positions, utilizing bearing elements and indentations to distribute force radially, reducing shock and preventing jamming, and incorporating a releasing device to switch the locking mechanism from locked to released states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking devices are used in separation devices, then reliable locking and releasing functions are achieved, but high shock levels are generated due to internal locking device impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into multiple segments (first locking segment, second locking segment, third locking segment) that can move independently. This segmentation allows the locking and releasing actions to be distributed across multiple smaller movements rather than one large impact, reducing shock levels while maintaining reliable locking and releasing functions
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device transitions from a static locked position to a dynamic releasing position through controlled movement of multiple segments. The bearing elements facilitate smooth transitions between states, allowing the locking device to dynamically adjust its configuration during separation, reducing impact shocks while maintaining functional reliability
2Reliability
If forceful initiators are used to safeguard release, then separation reliability is improved, but the shock generated by the separation device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The releasing device is divided into multiple releasing segments that act sequentially rather than simultaneously. This segmentation distributes the energy release over time and space, achieving reliable separation while reducing peak shock levels compared to a single forceful initiator
Solution Approach 2:
Bearing elements are introduced as intermediary components between the locking device and the nut portions. These bearing elements mediate the force transmission during releasing, cushioning the impact and reducing shock levels while still enabling reliable separation through the forceful initiators
3Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials and thin constructions are used to reduce spacecraft weight, then weight is reduced, but construction safety margins are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Bearing elements are pre-positioned between the locking device and nut portions to provide cushioning protection before separation occurs. This beforehand cushioning protects the lightweight, thin-walled spacecraft structures from shock damage during separation, enabling the use of lightweight materials without compromising construction safety margins
Solution Approach 2:
The shock energy that would normally be harmful to lightweight structures is converted into a beneficial controlled separation force. The bearing elements transform the potentially damaging impact into a controlled pushing action that reliably separates components while protecting the lightweight spacecraft structure from excessive shock
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 solution directs force perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, reducing shock peaks and preventing jamming, ensuring smooth separation and minimizing risk to sensitive structures by distributing force evenly and attenuating peak loads during the transition from locked to released states.
Implementation Method 1
at least two bearing elements arranged between the locking device and the nut... The bearing elements are advantageously positioned symmetrically around the nut to get a balanced pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
A separation device (1) for a spacecraft or launcher (1) comprising a nut (2) divided into at least two nut portions (2a, 2b, 2c) locked to each other by a locking device (3) in a locking position. A releasing device (4) is arranged to switch the locking device (3) from the locking position to a releasing position. The separation device (1) comprises at least two bearing elements (5) arranged between the locking device and the nut (2). The nut (2) comprises an outer envelope surface (6) which comprises as many indentations (7) as the number of bearing elements (5) and locking surfaces (8) between the indentations (7). In the locked state each bearing element (5) is jammed between the locking surface (8) and an inner envelope surface (9) of the locking device (3) and in the released state each bearing element (5) is positioned facing the indentations (7).