Opto- pyro trains for Space Systems - Gains provided by opto-pyro technology in terms of safety on launchers

摘要

The Redesign of pyro train seems to be mandatory for next generation of European launchers, in order to be compliant with new requirements. Maturation and developments done by AIRBUS-Defence and Space, since 1970 through strong partnerships, concerning Optic, Optronic and explosive systems highlighted great opportunities to merge these so matured technologies into opto-pyrotechnic system. The maturity of powerful and miniaturized optic components became COTS at the beginning of years 2000 and accelerated their integration into new field such as aircraft data transmission applications for an increasing amount of safety functions. The ability of optical fibre to transfer high amount of energy given by a very small laser diode, allows pyro designers to implement this technology into the first element of the pyro train called Laser Initiated Device (LID), such as the optical-initiator. These main technological evolutions highlight several improvements opportunities on launcher pyro trains for mainly increasing their safety levels. The safety advantages given by Opto-pyro are addressing several fields such as : Ground aspect during preparations and operations Functional aspects Industrial and Prime concerns Step by step, AIRBUS-DS manages to set up Opto-pyro train maturation from TRL4-IRL1, based on demonstrators and representative demonstrations on launcher configuration. These ongoing demonstrations will lead to a TRL6-IRL3 level in 2015, thanks to a strong R&T share with main partners. The higher safety level demonstrated by Opto-pyro train compared to the current electro-pyro safety trains used on space systems, allows the implementation of this new Opto-pyro technology on any new safety systems to be developed.