Monolithic 2 DOF fully compliant space pointing mechanism

E. G. Merriam; J. E. Jones; S. P. Magleby; L. L. Howell

doi:10.5194/ms-4-381-2013

Mechanical Sciences (Dec 2013)

Monolithic 2 DOF fully compliant space pointing mechanism

E. G. Merriam,
J. E. Jones,
S. P. Magleby,
L. L. Howell

Affiliations

E. G. Merriam: Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
J. E. Jones: Marshall Space Flight Center, NASA, Huntsville, AL 35812, USA
S. P. Magleby: Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
L. L. Howell: Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-4-381-2013
Journal volume & issue: Vol. 4, no. 2
pp. 381 – 390

Abstract

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This paper describes the conception, modeling, and development of a fully compliant two-degree-of-freedom pointing mechanism for application in spacecraft thruster, antenna, or solar array systems. The design objectives and the advantages of a compliant solution are briefly discussed. Detailed design decisions to meet project objectives are described. Analytical and numerical models are developed and subsequently verified by prototype testing and measurements in several iterations. A final design of the 3-D printed titanium monolithic pointing mechanism is described in detail and its performance is measured.

Published in Mechanical Sciences

ISSN: 2191-9151 (Print); 2191-916X (Online)
Publisher: Copernicus Publications
Country of publisher: Germany
LCC subjects: Technology: Electrical engineering. Electronics. Nuclear engineering: Materials of engineering and construction. Mechanics of materials
Website: http://www.mechanical-sciences.net

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