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Scientific Article details

Title Resource Efficient Process Chain Development of a Modular CubeSat Spaceframe
ID_Doc 15892
Authors Oberholzer, JF; Uheida, EH; Oosthuizen, GA
Title Resource Efficient Process Chain Development of a Modular CubeSat Spaceframe
Year 2019
Published
DOI 10.1016/j.promfg.2019.06.037
Abstract A CubeSat is a 10x10x10 cm cube that can weigh up to 1.33 kg. This design offers a less expensive alternative for space enthusiasts to explore the cosmos, even though the total weight is very limited. For a CubeSat to be allowed to launch, it must adhere to certain specifications outlined in the CubeSat Design Specifications document. This places several restrictions on the satellite in terms of weight, size and center of gravity, and innovative solutions need to be explored during integration to meet these specifications. Having a spaceframe that can easily be assembled and disassembled will help smooth out the integration stage and save a significant time that can then be allocated elsewhere in the developmental stages. The increasing relevance of resource efficient manufacturing is prevalent through the continually rising costs of resources and energy. In order to stay competitive, manufacturers must develop resource efficient process chains to gain an advantage in the market. This study focused on developing a resource efficient process chain to manufacture a modular CubeSat spaceframe. This spaceframe must adhere to the CubeSat Design specifications, as well as meet the customer's needs. A unique assembly process was designed that eliminated the need for screws structure together. Instead the spaceframe relies on interference fits, and utilizes the unique deployment method of the Poly-Picosatellite Orbital Deployer to ensure that the assembly does not fail. A material selection procedure was utilized, along with resource efficient manufacturing process chains to develop a CubeSat structure that is very cost effective to produce, easily assembled and disassembled and weighed less than most of the market leading CubeSat structures. (C) 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Author Keywords Assembly; CubSat; Manufacturing; Spaceframe; Sustainable
Index Keywords Index Keywords
Document Type Other
Open Access Open Access
Source Conference Proceedings Citation Index - Science (CPCI-S)
EID WOS:000503765900132
WoS Category Green & Sustainable Science & Technology; Engineering, Manufacturing; Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Research Area Science & Technology - Other Topics; Engineering; Materials Science
PDF https://doi.org/10.1016/j.promfg.2019.06.037
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