Development of a Reusable, Low-Shock Clamp Band Separation System for Small Spacecraft Release Applications

Development of a Reusable, Low-Shock Clamp Band Separation System for Small Spacecraft Release Applications

In small spacecraft, the proximity of sensitive components to release systems has led to the need for lowshock spacecraft release systems. Marmon band systems are often desirable for their flight history, structural capability, and reliability. Until recently, only pyrotechnically released clamp bands were readily available. The clamp band system described in ths paper reduces shock in two ways: it eliminates shock typically associated with pyrotechnic release devices as well as utilizing a release device that reduces the shock associated with the rapid release of the preload strain energy. Patented Fast Acting Shockless Separation Nut (FASSN) technology is utilized to convert strain energy stored in the system into rotational energy of a flywheel. Early FASSN devices were designed for discrete point applications and were somewhat large and massive. Additional development of the FASSN device has reduced the size and weight to enable the use of the technology in a medium sized (12 to 24 inch diameter) clamp band system. This paper describes the overall design, performance, and initial test results for the FASSN-based, non-pyrotechnic, low-shock clamp band release system.