AASC qualifies and delivers first AFRL Multi-Payload Adapter
09/01/2002
AASC completed the qualification test of the Multi-Payload adapter. AASC designed, fabricated, assembled and tested the MPA as part of a SBIR contract in partnership with CSA Engineering.
Applied Aerospace Structures Corp. (AASC), Stockton,CA in conjunction with CSA Engineering just completed the design, fabrication, assembly and test of an Integrated Payload Adapter for Multi-Payload missions. The design purpose of the payload adapter is to provide an innovated generic multi micro-satellite payload adapter system solution for the Minotaur launch vehicle. AASC was responsible for the overall design, fabrication and test of the adapter, while CSA performed the dynamic analysis and incorporated their design for interface dampers into the interface between the adapter and the launch vehicle.
The key features of AASC's adapter design are:
- Re-configurable for any micro-satellite
- Launches 2 to 10 micro-satellites ranging from 40 to 900 lbs
- Consists of bulk, “low-cost” honeycomb panels (ie. building blocks)
- Offers “off-the-shelf” payload separation systems
- Allows replacement or addition of payloads late in launch schedule
- Substantially improves cost and time to market for micro-satellites
- Flight proven with data from the OSP-3 mission
AASC's adapter design is completely re-configurable into four designs: Triad, Quad, Cantilevered and Center Cantilevered. The size and mass distribution of the various satellites will determine which adapter configuration is best for any particular payload manifest.
AASC's all-aluminum honeycomb panel construction uses standard potted inserts and structural edge closeouts. The adapter is sold as a kit of building blocks from which any configuration adapter can be assembled. The static load test was performed for the triad configuration because it is the design driver for all the common joints. The adapter weight is approximately 150 lbs in any configuration.