Systems and Parts:
The goals of the MEROPE Structure subsystem include development and/or fabrication of the chassis, antenna deployment system,mechanical switches (e.g. kill switch), separation spring mechanism and card retainer selection and placement. Environmental criteria considered in the development of these systems are outgassing, vibration, and thermal expansion/contraction. The final satellite mass and volume constraints of 1 kg and 1 L, respectively, demand the selection of the lightest and smallest components available.
Team Lead: Steven Jepsen
Team Members:
- Cody Pinion
- Trevor Grove
The chassis of MEROPE consists of machined 6061 and 7075 aluminum sides fastened together with countersunk screws and locknuts. The estimated final mass of the chassis and fasteners is 220 g. We are currently working on two models: (1) a primary model built using a computer-controlled mill, and (2) a backup model built by mechanical engineering student Cody Pinion. Return to the top of the page
INFO SOON TO COME Return to the top of the page
Link #3 takes you here... Return to the top of the page
More info. soon to come Return to the top of the page
MEROPE will be equipped with series 165/166, 3.25" Calmark card retainers which were generously donated by Unicomp. The purpose of PCB (printed circuit board) retainers are to provide a convenient, modular method to attach components to MEROPE. These retainers are light weight (1.2 g/in) and made of beryllium copper, an exceptional thermal conductor. MEROPE will contain three PCB boards, each secured to the chassis on opposite sides with two retainers. Size 2-56, 100 degree flat-head machine screws with micro-mini locknuts will be used to fasten the retainers onto the chassis sides. The total retention force exerted on each board by the retainers is 12 lbs.
