Positioning and Hold Mount (Phm) for Spacelab Experiments. Phase 1: Hardware Technology Study

摘要

Positioning and hold mount (PHM) is a pointing system which is stabilized with respect to the orbiter frame but not inertially. Its pointing maneuvers are defined by electrical command signals from the Spacelab CDMS experiment computer. Experiments compatible with the proposed PHM design were identified, along with necessary design modifications to existing hardware. A conceptual PHM design was studied and the PHM development cost estimated. Performance and user costs for a few different pointing systems (e.g., PHM, SEM, IPS) were compared. A PHM design is proposed based upon existing hardware which features low total user cost and development cost, high payload mass/size capability and accomodation flexibility (max 250 kg), high performance with respect to the requirements (more than hemispherical coverage; high inherent accuracy) high safety, simple handling and operation suitable for improved (stabilized) versions and low development risk.