SAS-C Solar Array Deployment Dynamics.
Abstract
SAS-C has four segmented solar arrays, each consisting of three contiguous, spring-connected solar panels. Array deployment involves unfolding from an inverted 'N' configuration to an extended planar configuration. The deployment dynamics of this type of mechanical system are such that the possibility of damage to any one of the four solar arrays, because of undesirable deployment dynamics, is quite significant. Minimizing this possibility has been the objective of an analytical and experimental investigation. In the analytical investigation, digital computer simulations were used to examine many aspects of the deployment dynamics. The simulations resulted in a set of array spring and mass parameters that minimize deployment damage potential. Experimental investigations consisted of spacecraft despin an array deployment in a vacuum chamber. The report presents analytic and experimental results. Acceptable agreement was obtained between the vacuum test data and the digital simulation. All of the results indicate that the expected deployment dynamics are acceptable for flight.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA022713
Entities
People
- C. E. Williams
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University