DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2014.161
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/1312
Date of Award
10-2014
Degree Name
MS in Aerospace Engineering
Department/Program
Aerospace Engineering
Advisor
Jordi Puig-Suari
Abstract
The Poly-Picosatellite Orbital Deployer (P-POD) has undergone a series of revisions over the years. The latest revision, described in this Master’s Thesis, incorporates new capabilities like EMI shielding, an inert gas purge system, and an electrical interface to the CubeSats after they are integrated into the P-POD. Additionally, some mass reduction modifications are made to the P-POD, while its overall strength is increased. The P-POD inert gas purge system successfully flew, on a previous revision P-POD. The P-POD components are analyzed to a set of dynamic loads for qualification, and successfully undergoes random vibration qualification testing. The P-POD encounters some problems in thermal vacuum cycling qualification and EMI testing, but there is evidence that the issues can be mitigated. A path forward is laid out to complete both sets of testing.