Structural Design Modification of a CubeSat Regarding Modal Compatibility for Launching by Vega C Launcher

Abstract

In this research, the dynamic response of a U-12 CubeSat (20x20x30 cm) is investigated for three configurations during the launch conditions. Despite the existence of a successful design for this satellite, adding a mount to install on a standard adapter, the structural design of the satellite has been modified for modal computability with the launcher., which is based on 3 general approaches: to apply geometric changes to the structure, changing the extent of the points to improve the limitations of connecting to the launcher, and rearranging the internal system components regarding the standards and principles of compatibility and proximity. Therefore, more than the addition of the adapter mount and a few changes in the separating plates, a spire has been added to the structure, which has caused a change in the internal arrangement, including the halving of the fuel tank (by reducing the capacity of 595 cubic centimeters). Despite the increase of 370 grams of total mass, the natural frequencies of the system have been increased enough without the need for redesign and there will be no frequency interference with the frequency spectrum of the launcher.

Keywords

• modal analysis
• design modification
• cubesat
• modal compatibility