The proposed SBIR Phase 1 program will conceptually develop a lightweight long stroke isolation system for large flexible space structures, and ready this technology for a follow-on SBIR Phase 2 hardware validation program. The isolation system technology to be developed will provide mechanical/electrical connection and dynamic isolation between large steerable deployable appendage and spacecraft, respectively. The proposed Phase 1 program will establish isolation system concept feasibility through design and analytical modeling, and trade study/evaluation activities. Concept feasibility will be determined by quantitatively and/or qualitatively assessing isolation characteristics, agility characteristics, safe mode operation, power/data transfer, weight, cost, complexity, reliability, packaging, deployment, and survivability. The proposed Phase 1 program will be executed through a team approach, working concurrently with the AFRL and other subsystem technology partners.
Benefits: The potential benefits and commercial value of isolation systems could be enormous, as this technology is mission enabling for future missions. Future spacecraft trends for both the DoD and commercial markets are focusing on larger and larger deployed solar array, antenna, and other mechanical systems in an effort to increase mission capability. These large deployable systems will require an isolation system that provides long stroke frictionless motion and isolation of flexible dynamics to completely fulfill mission requirements. A feasible isolation system is mission enabling for many future applications, and as such will capture significant commercial value.
