Low-cost ejection mechanism for protective covers on meteosat second generation

摘要

Two covers protect the sensitive surfaces of the MSG (Meteosat Second Generation) satellite against possible contaminants. Once the peril of contamination ceases, the covers must be jettisoned, allowing the satellite to operate. Their failure to provide isolation or the failure of their jettisoning leads to mission failure. The mechanisms responsible for the ejection must face severe requirements: only one pyrotechnic is allowed for the baffle cover, the acoustic environment reaches levels of 146 dB, and the allowed mass is very low. These requirements have led to the use of preloaded supports such as the "flexible releasable hinge", which is capable of supporting the cover and releasing it passively without the use of telecommand.