Development of a decoupling device for rockets and other space modules�NASA Space Apps Challenge�

​

​

Rafael Juan Almañac Garrido

Jorge, Benito Daniel

Team: Sparrows Challenge: Let it Go (without a Bang)

Objectives

The challenge will be to design a mechanical separation device that can release two parts from each other smoothly in space without pyrotechnics. The device must work quickly and function without impact and must be different from existing methods. What's more:

• The device should survive temperatures of -50C to +80C (heaters can be used to keep the device warm).
• The device should operate between 0C to +40C (once again, heaters can be used).
• No net debris should be allowed to escape. Everything needs to be captured or attached to one static body or the other. If debris escaped, it would create space junk.
• Provide the minimum volume and mass your device requires. The device should be smaller than a cylinder that is less than 15cm long, by 2cm in diameter, and weigh less than 1 kg.
• Tell how many Newtons of force your device can hold together (during launch) or push apart.
• Try to estimate the reliability of your device. It should work 99.5% of the time or better.

​

The proposed solution consists of a device with the following elements:

1) Safety rod actuation

2) Connecting rods drive

3) Uncoupling/Detaching of the parts