Nowadays, many micro-satellites rely on three-axis stabilization using at least three reaction wheels (RWs) for attitude control. Typically, RWs are mounted separately within the satellite and leads to long wires from each RW to the associated electronics. Placement and other constraints may also arise during integration. Furthermore, the large number of mounting holes required for mounting the RWs directly on the structural panels may weaken the integrity of the structure. This paper highlights a need for a special housing to be designed for mounting three to four RWs as a group at one location for simple and easy three-axis stabilization of typical micro-satellites.

    Design/methodology/approach

    Details about the development of the design methodology for such housing are discussed. The basic idea is to place the RWs onto the proposed housing, which will be then mounted on to one of the honeycomb panels used for the satellite structure. Requirements analysis, design, validation, and manufacturing process are covered.

    Findings

    The outcome is a dimensionally optimized housing structure for four RWs with a frequency safety factor of three.

    Originality/value

    In summary, the designed product satisfied all requirements. In addition, the exercise set out a planned procedure for designing similar housings for other satellite components.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Development of reaction wheels housing for micro-satellites


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Publication date :

    2005-04-01


    Size :

    8 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English




    Development of reaction wheels housing for micro-satellites

    Yong, Sing Yeong | Online Contents | 2005


    Fault tolerant control for satellites with four reaction wheels

    Jin, Jaehyun / Ko, Sangho / Ryoo, Chang-Kyung | Tema Archive | 2008




    Enhanced attitude control structure for small satellites with reaction wheels

    Ismail, Zuliana / Varatharajoo, Renuganth / Ajir, Ramly et al. | Emerald Group Publishing | 2015