Session
Session VIII: Advanced Technologies—Section 2
Abstract
HexPak is a deployable satellite structure that offers several advantages to small satellite missions, including ease of scalability, a geometry naturally adapted for plug-and-play architectures and multiple missionspecific component layouts, and a large deployed aperture from an optimal stowed volume. It consists of hexagonal bays that stack when stowed to efficiently use payload fairing volume, but deploy to a planar structure with deck area many times the fairing cross-section. The large deployed area to fairing size ratio supports large aperture payloads, multiple payloads, heat rejection significantly beyond traditional designs, multiple manifest with minimal wasted support mass, and easy access on orbit for expansion and flexibility for reconfiguration on orbit. For missions that require a large number of platforms, the modular structure offers easy interchangeability of HexPak bays which makes it possible to maintain a consistent production flow even during periods of parts shortages. Standard physical interfaces also allows for commonality in tooling, fixturing, testing and ease of satellite integration. The hexagonal geometry is near optimum for taking advantage of available faring envelopes and the folded structure is self-supporting, which minimizes the need for additional structure to support launch. Mission and subsystem design trades, including launch vehicle accommodation, structural design, layout and configuration are described.
Presentation Slides
HexPak – Big Area from a Small Satellite
HexPak is a deployable satellite structure that offers several advantages to small satellite missions, including ease of scalability, a geometry naturally adapted for plug-and-play architectures and multiple missionspecific component layouts, and a large deployed aperture from an optimal stowed volume. It consists of hexagonal bays that stack when stowed to efficiently use payload fairing volume, but deploy to a planar structure with deck area many times the fairing cross-section. The large deployed area to fairing size ratio supports large aperture payloads, multiple payloads, heat rejection significantly beyond traditional designs, multiple manifest with minimal wasted support mass, and easy access on orbit for expansion and flexibility for reconfiguration on orbit. For missions that require a large number of platforms, the modular structure offers easy interchangeability of HexPak bays which makes it possible to maintain a consistent production flow even during periods of parts shortages. Standard physical interfaces also allows for commonality in tooling, fixturing, testing and ease of satellite integration. The hexagonal geometry is near optimum for taking advantage of available faring envelopes and the folded structure is self-supporting, which minimizes the need for additional structure to support launch. Mission and subsystem design trades, including launch vehicle accommodation, structural design, layout and configuration are described.
