Non-Pyrotechnic Radial Deployment Mechanism for Payloads in Sounding Rockets
Thakur Pranav G. Singh, Utkarsh Anand, Tanvi Agrawal, Srinivas G
Abstract
A novel, non-pyrotechnic payload deployment mechanism tailored for sounding rockets is introduced in this research paper. The mechanism addresses the challenge of efficiently and compactly deploying payloads radially during a single launch, featuring a cylindrical carrier structure actuated by a rack-pinion mechanism. Powered by a servo motor, the carrier structure translates to enable radial ejection of payloads. The paper presents the mechanism's design and conducts a comprehensive performance analysis, including structural stability, system dynamics and power requirements. A simulation model is developed to assess payload deployment behavior under various conditions, demonstrating the mechanism's viability and efficiency for deploying multiple payloads within a single sounding rocket launch. The mechanism's adaptability to accommodate diverse payload types, sizes and weights enhances its versatility, while its radial deployment capability allows payloads to be released at different altitudes, offering greater flexibility for scientific experiments. The paper concludes that this innovative payload radial deployment mechanism represents a significant advancement in sounding rocket technology and holds promise for a wide array of applications in both scientific and commercial missions.