Design and Experimental Validation of Compact, Quick Response Shape Memory Alloy Separation Device

Abstract

The shape memory alloy (SMA)actuated separation devices that are currently used in small satellites were usually designed to handle large separation loads. As a result, they have complex structures, large footprints, and high power consumptions. In this paper, we report a simpler and more compact separation device. A design methodology for the loadshifting SMA actuator (LSSA) used in a device was developed. Four prototypes were fabricated and tested to demonstrate the design concept and the LSSA design methodology. Experiments showed that this separation device has the merits of a quick response time, compact size, and simple structure, which give it potential for smallsatellite applications.