OpenOrbiter I - In Space 3D Printing and Low-Cost Framework Demonstration
Session
Session 11: Education 2
Abstract
This paper presents an overview and detailed technical review of the OpenOrbiter I mission. This 1-U CubeSat serves as a demonstration of in-space 3D printing capabilities, validates and demonstrates a very low cost spacecraft design framework and demonstrates a capability for supporting user-supplied applications. It is manifested for launch on SpaceX CRS-12 in 2017. This paper will begin by providing a detailed review of the OpenOrbiter I mechanical design. In particular, the unique PCB side-insertion approach will be discussed and the rationale for this (as well as associated benefits and drawbacks) will be considered. The strategy employed for volume maximization (both in terms of using overhang areas and maximizing the use of the interior space) will be discussed. Next, the electrical design will be reviewed. In this area, the particular focus will be on how the cost of all of the electronic systems was lowered to support achieving a spacecraft with an overall parts cost of about $2,000. A brief overview of each subsystem will be presented, with areas of cost innovation highlighted. Additional areas of desired future refinement will also be discussed. Then, the in-space 3D printing mission will be discussed. The printing demonstration unit, approximately 5 cm x 5 cm x 10 cm, will be presented and its capabilities explained. The paper will also discuss what outcomes from this test are expected / desired and what we can potentially learn, both from its successful operations and from various types of potential impairment. The spacecraft’s autonomous command software and its capability to support user-provided apps on orbit is now discussed. An overview of the mechanisms included to ensure operating safety with this user provided content is provided. A detailed review of the overall software system is also provided. Finally, the paper concludes with a discussion of the value of the OpenOrbiter I mission. It considers this in terms of educational goal attainment, capability development and scientific / engineering advancements.
Presentation
OpenOrbiter I - In Space 3D Printing and Low-Cost Framework Demonstration
This paper presents an overview and detailed technical review of the OpenOrbiter I mission. This 1-U CubeSat serves as a demonstration of in-space 3D printing capabilities, validates and demonstrates a very low cost spacecraft design framework and demonstrates a capability for supporting user-supplied applications. It is manifested for launch on SpaceX CRS-12 in 2017. This paper will begin by providing a detailed review of the OpenOrbiter I mechanical design. In particular, the unique PCB side-insertion approach will be discussed and the rationale for this (as well as associated benefits and drawbacks) will be considered. The strategy employed for volume maximization (both in terms of using overhang areas and maximizing the use of the interior space) will be discussed. Next, the electrical design will be reviewed. In this area, the particular focus will be on how the cost of all of the electronic systems was lowered to support achieving a spacecraft with an overall parts cost of about $2,000. A brief overview of each subsystem will be presented, with areas of cost innovation highlighted. Additional areas of desired future refinement will also be discussed. Then, the in-space 3D printing mission will be discussed. The printing demonstration unit, approximately 5 cm x 5 cm x 10 cm, will be presented and its capabilities explained. The paper will also discuss what outcomes from this test are expected / desired and what we can potentially learn, both from its successful operations and from various types of potential impairment. The spacecraft’s autonomous command software and its capability to support user-provided apps on orbit is now discussed. An overview of the mechanisms included to ensure operating safety with this user provided content is provided. A detailed review of the overall software system is also provided. Finally, the paper concludes with a discussion of the value of the OpenOrbiter I mission. It considers this in terms of educational goal attainment, capability development and scientific / engineering advancements.
