Session
Session V: Advanced Technologies 1
Abstract
The thermal environments of satellites, in general, and futuristic mini, micro, nano and pico satellites, in particular, are in a constant state of flux. Each satellite houses valuable equipment having specified temperature limits and a range of heat generation rates. In order to maintain all equipment within operational temperature in this continuously temperature changing environment, an active thermal control system is required. Weight, size and energy requirements of the thermal controller of a satellite are a major challenge especially in light of the trend toward diminishing satellite size. In this paper, we present an active thermal manager capable of controlling the thermal conditions within a satellite and maintain a near room-temperature environment. The thermal manager is an electrochromic device (ECD) that changes the reflectance/emittance properties of the attached surface in a controllable manner.
Presentation Slides
Electrochromic Thermal Manager for Mini, Micro and Nano Satellites
The thermal environments of satellites, in general, and futuristic mini, micro, nano and pico satellites, in particular, are in a constant state of flux. Each satellite houses valuable equipment having specified temperature limits and a range of heat generation rates. In order to maintain all equipment within operational temperature in this continuously temperature changing environment, an active thermal control system is required. Weight, size and energy requirements of the thermal controller of a satellite are a major challenge especially in light of the trend toward diminishing satellite size. In this paper, we present an active thermal manager capable of controlling the thermal conditions within a satellite and maintain a near room-temperature environment. The thermal manager is an electrochromic device (ECD) that changes the reflectance/emittance properties of the attached surface in a controllable manner.
