Release Mechanism for small satellite using micro DC motor

Abstract

This paper describes development of a non-explosive separation device which can be equipped on small satellites. The spur geared micro DC motor, which has high reliability and advantage of price, is adopted as an actuator. The proposed separation device has resettability and it does not need extra jig to reload. In addition, the simple structure makes it easy to fabricate and assemble. To verify the performance of the proposed device, the response time tests, maximum preload tests and maximum shock level tests were performed. Also, through the vibration tests and thermal vacuum tests, feasibility of the proposed separation device was shown in launching and space environments. Therefore, we expect that the proposed separation device can replace the imported separation devices in near future.