The Qualification of a Self-Resettable 4.5 kN Hold-Down and Release Mechanism

Abstract

During ECSSMET 2023, the CREAM HDRM was introduced to the space community [1]. The major advantage of this mechanism is its novel approach to lock the release bolt within the mechanism. The locking mechanism is based on friction, which is generated by a collet-cone design. The major advantages of this strategy are simplicity in the design, low-shock characteristics and self-resetability. A new scaled version of the CREAM HDRM was developed within the last year due to the emerging need for larger HDRM mechanisms. The system just finished final qualification to TRL6. The principle of the locking mechanism remained the same. However, due to the significantly larger preload, upscaling of the design elements became necessary. The paper starts with a brief description of the design principle. A detailed characteristic of the push-pull device is shown, as this element required most design changes to allow high release forces. The achieved specifications of the CREAM 4.5 kN HDRM, including the shock emission at release, are discussed afterwards. The rest of the paper focuses on the details of the qualification campaign. This campaign includes mechanical (vibration, shock), thermal-vacuum and life testing. The paper closes with the overview of the commercialization process into the space market through an industrial partner.