| Ultimate load and release time controllable non-explosive separation device using a shape memory alloy actuator
Wonjun Tak, Minsu Lee and Byungkyu Kim*
The Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology, vol. 25, no. 5, pp.1141-1147, 2011
Abstract : This paper describes a newly designed ultimate load and release time controllable non-explosive separation device which is activated
by a spring-type shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator. This device is comprised of a separation mechanism consisting of a deformation
module, a blocker, the housing, two release springs and a spring-type SMA actuator. Through a theoretical approach, the ultimate load of
the separation device and the required force to deform the deformation module according to the thickness of the deformation module are
investigated. Based on theoretical results, the specifications of an SMA actuator to deform the deformation module are determined. In
order to validate theoretical result, we manufactured a separation device which has a 1mm thickness of deformation module. Subsequently,
the release time test, preload test, ultimate load test, and shock test are performed respectively. As a result, the release time with
30 W of power input is 55 sec. It actuates reliably under 150 N of preload and generates a maximum shock of -11.09 G when the diameter
of the SMA wire is 1.75mm. The maximum ultimate-load for 1mm thickness of aluminum deformation module is 1,510N. Conclusively,
satellite designers can select proper specification such as the ultimate load, shock level and release time according to satellite requirements
by simply changing the thickness of the deformation module.
Keyword : Non-explosive actuator; Separation device; SMA actuator; Solar panel; Deployment |
