PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
- Define the operating modes and constraints associated to thermo-acoustic engines and geostationary Satcom
- Propose new concepts of Satcom (including energy storage) and adapt thermo-acoustic energy conversion
- Review satellite platform concepts and operation
- Assess possibilities to use thermo-acoustic engine during transfer phase when coupled with other subsystems
- Assess budgets (performance, costs, …)
- Assess Benefits and Constraints
- Propose roadmaps – if needed (incl. IOD)
Challenges
A TAG power subsystem on-board a telecoms spacecraft is a thoroughly ground-breaking concept. The key challenges are:
- Achieving system level competitiveness vs. traditional PV systems.
- Satisfying operational constraints (ground test, prelaunch, launch/transfer and failure recover)
- EV management (thermal, vibration, radiation and vacuum).
- Structural design (deployables, heat collection and distribution etc…).
- Assessing and managing micro-vibration
- Assessing degradation and failure reliability
- Verifying suitability of materials and finding replacements.
- Benchmarking and scaling re. PV based systems
- TRL development strategy roadmap planning
- Power generation management through.
System Architecture
A completely innovative approach has been taken. The architectural design is focussed on the needs of the TAG system. The TAG is located in its own module attached to the main structure of the spacecraft. The TAG main collector is permanently sun facing. The remaining faces of the spacecraft provide heat rejection radiator surfaces. The additional radiator area accommodates the heat rejection from the TAG, the payload and the systems thus eliminating the need for additional external mass. Comms antenna are located on the +/-Y walls mounted on a rotating coupler (similar to a terrestrial RADAR) to maintain Earth facing.
Plan
- Task 1 – TAG technology study
- Task 2 – architecture concept
- Task 3 – Benchmark exercise
- Task 4 – Technology Roadmap
Current Status
Completed successfully.
