Application of a Shape Memory Polymer to Advanced Spacecraft Mechanisms

The increasing complexity and size of spacecraft has aggravated the problem of packaging a spacecraft for launch and subsequently deploying the spacecraft in its operational configuration. The motors and spring-driven deployment mechanisms and their associated release /latch devices are single-point failure sources, with significant failure potentials due to launch loads, thermal cycling, and the space environment. Several technologies such as shape memory alloys and electrostrictive/magnetostrictive materials, are beginning to emerge as possible replacements for these deployment mechanisms.Saddleback Aerospace has devised several deployment schemes based on a new candidate material: a shape memory ploymer. The polymer should offer low cost, lower weight, easier attachment and greater design versatility than existing or emerging technologies. In the proposed Phase I program, candidate roles for shape memory polymer actuators will be evaluated, and two prototype actuates will be fabricated.|Benefits: The development of shape memory polymer space actuator mechanism will benefit the design of all classes of satellites and spacecraft, particularly the newer class of LEO and MEO communications satellites.