Advanced Hybrid Actuator Architecture for Solid Propulsion Control Systems

Integrated Global Insights, LLC (IGI) proposes the development of a hybrid actuator system architecture that incorporates two new features into an existing electro-mechanical actuator. These features improve fine position accuracy, improve actuator thermal management risk, and increases kill vehicle delta-V performance because of reduced power consumption. Long duration missions, using solid propulsion control systems, typically command small, precise position changes for 90% of the total mission. IGIs first feature incorporate a secondary motor system to provide this fine position control to reduce the use of the high power draw electro-mechanical motor. Thermal management of the actuator can be a challenge for the long duration missions. IGIs second feature provides a seal internal to the thruster between the actuator to thruster pintle interface. This feature increases the thermal capability of the dynamic seal while providing load reduction to the actuator. Coupling these two features with a modified control system approach results in a reduction in power consumption of 48%, the elimination of the need for multiple thermal batteries which results in lower inert weight and a potential 2.6% increase in kill vehicle delta-V. Approved for Public Release | 16-MDA-8917 (15 November 16)