Abstract
The increasing presence of additive manufacturing (AM) in the space sector prompted us to investigate the feasibility of a single degree of freedom (DoF) pointing system (PS) made by means of a compound planetary gear train system (C-PGTS) integrating a dynamic balancing system (DBS) and entirely realized in AM. We analyzed in detail the dynamics of the system dealing with the design and the realization of the prototype. Of fundamental importance for this paper is the careful selection of materials for AM suitable for the prohibitive conditions of space. The results, deriving from the comparison between the experimental part and the simulations, underline the correct dimensioning of the PS and the fundamental importance of DBS in maintaining the satellite attitude. The results also confirm the capabilities of AM in the production of complex mechanical systems, allowing high precision, combined with interesting mechanical properties and low weight.This suggests the potential of AM in the space domain, both for structural parts and active components, such as those listed in this work.
Highlights
The constellation of devices in orbit around Earth provides a constant flow of data, allowing us to predict with sufficient accuracy the evolution of meteorological phenomena or to monitor the continuous changes occurring on the planet surface, i.e., cities development or the melting of the Arctic gravel [2,3]
It is clear that between the two models, the one that mostly adheres to the experimental data is the multi-body
This result highlights the better capability of ADAMS in predicting the dynamic variables trend
Summary
Since the late 1950s, the creation of artificial satellites has allowed mankind to both take a deeper look at the depths of outer space and to better understand how planet Earth behaves [1]. The constellation of devices in orbit around Earth provides a constant flow of data, allowing us to predict with sufficient accuracy the evolution of meteorological phenomena or to monitor the continuous changes occurring on the planet surface, i.e., cities development or the melting of the Arctic gravel [2,3]. Units can be combined into increasingly complex systems depending on the instruments they are equipped with. This new approach has made it possible for universities, and private entities with limited funds, to be able to put their equipment into orbit for an average cost, including manufacturing, of approximately EUR
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