Investigations of Fluid-Dynamic Actuators for Attitude Control of Pico- and Nano Satellites

该项目涉及未来超小型和皮科卫星姿态控制系统的实验室研究。这种替代装置使用流体环来储存角动量。以前的工作提供了证明流体动力学执行器的有益用途，并导致了紧凑和高效的执行器原型。通过对影响流量的部件进行详细检查，现在应优化整个系统的性能。基于先前获得的洞察力，现在评估不同的液态金属和介电流体作为角动量存储介质的用途。因此，必须评估不同温度下相应流体的机械泵性能。进一步的重点放在电动推进机制，重点是功率/重量比和效率的流体驱动组件。此外，还应分析各种通道几何形状对流动特性的影响。本研究旨在发展一种适用于小卫星姿态控制的高效无磨损执行机构系统。

This project is dealing with laboratory investigations for a future attitude control system for nano- and pico satellites. This alternative device uses fluid rings for angular momentum storage. Previous work delivered proof for the profitable usage of fluid-dynamic actuators and resulted in a compact and efficient actuator prototype. Through detailed examination of the flow affecting components, the overall system performance shall now be optimized. Building on previously gained insight, different liquid metals and dielectric fluids are now evaluated for their use as a medium for angular momentum storage. Therefore, the mechanical pump performance at different temperatures for the respective fluids must be assessed. Further emphasis is laid on electro-dynamic propulsion mechanisms with focus on the power/weight ratio and the efficiency of the fluid driving components. Moreover, the influence of various channel geometries on the flow properties shall be analyzed. This research aims at the development of a highly efficient and wear-free actuator system tailored for the attitude control of small satellites.