Development of a Non-explosive Segmented Nut-type Holding and Release Mechanism for Cube Satellite Applications

A nylon cable cutting mechanism triggered by a nichrome bum wire is generally used for cube satellite applications for the purpose of holding and releasing onboard appendages owing to its simplicity and low cost. However, the disadvantages of this mechanism are a lower constraint force and also unavoidable system complexity when it is applied to cube satellites with multiple deployable structures. In this study, as the result of an internal development program for cube satellites, we propose a segmented nut-type holding and release mechanism that affords advantages such as high load capability and negligible induced shock. A demonstration model of the mechanism has been fabricated, assembled and functionally tested under qualification temperatures.