The Structure & Thermal Management sub-team is in charge of designing and manufacturing the frame of the 3U CubeSat, using skills such as
The purpose of the CubeSat frame is not only to provide a mechanical scaffold structure to the CubeSat, but also to provide a hospitable environment for the rest of the subsystems contained within the frame. The frame will have to protect the rest of the subsystems from the prolonged extreme vibrations during launch and the harsh space conditions for two years afterwards. These space conditions include
Beside the requirements posed by the environment, the structure must also comply with regulations such as the ECSS and the Cal Poly CubeSat Design Specification – to name the two most important ones.
This sub-team is divided into two groups: Structure and Thermals. Currently, the sub-team is focusing on an initial internal layout in CAD. We are working out the configuration of the subsystems that aims to be optimal, but at the very least ensures requirement compliance. Another major part of the designing phase is developing a deploying mechanism for solar panels which will be placed on the CubeSat. We are engineering specific release mechanisms to keep the panels folded flat against the frame during the launch phase and extend them after launch.
Those working on Thermals focus on the heat dissipation on the entirety of the CubeSat. Through the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA), the CAD models of all subsystems are used to conduct simulations of how heat flows through the structure. Based on the results, control measures are issued to conduct heat away from hot-spots, supply net heat to cold-spots and to allow the subsystems to work within their designed temperature range.
The Structure and Thermal Management sub-team works in a very close coordination with the rest of the sub-teams to ensure that the requirements of all sub-teams are met, which sometimes involves facilitating the re-definition of conflicting requirements.
Tasks & Responsibilities | a) Design the configuration of the CubeSat subsystem arrangement. b) Design the deploying mechanisms such as deploying solar panels. c) Design thermal management system. d) Design environmental protection systems. e) Design the 3U CubeSat frame. f) Assemble the 3U CubeSat frame and structure. g) Optionally, also manufacture the frame (may be outsourced otherwise). h) Test the frame and structure in collaboration with the PA Subteam. |
Roles | Mechanical Engineers, Thermal Engineers, Material Scientists |