3U CubeSat mechanical design and subsystems

Abstract

In this paper, an in-depth analysis of the mechanical design and integration of the 3U CubeSat subsystems is presented, a common form factor in the small satellite community. The study summarises recent research and emphasises developments in material selection, structural integrity, thermal management, and computer-aided design (CAD) techniques. In addition, it explores the integration of crucial subsystems, such as power, communication, and payloads, highlighting the challenges and solutions encountered. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the state-of-the-art 3U CubeSat mechanical design and subsystem integration by compiling and evaluating current developments. The insights offered here are essential for researchers and engineers, laying the groundwork for further advancements in CubeSat technology.

Keywords

• 3U CubeSats
• small satellites
• mechanical design
• mechanical subsystems
• electronic subsystems