Universal CubeSat Platform Design Technique

Abstract

This article summarizes cubesat technology, provides examples of their scientific impact, and describes the design and the manufacturing of a Cubesat platform. As for the design of the overall frame structure of the CubeSat, we have searched a lot of literature and consulted many predecessors' designs, and collected many satellite structure images. After analyzing the data, we aimed at all kinds of different structures’ advantages and disadvantages, finally we got a best design. It is a satellite of cubic shape (10 cm per side), weighing approximately 1kg, based on the creation of a central body made of different material using the 3D-Printing techniques. The 3D-Printing technique has several advantages including fast implementation, accuracy in manufacturing small parts and low cost. Moreover, concerning the construction of a small satellite, this technique is very useful thanks to the accuracy achievable in details, which are sometimes difficult and expensive to realize with the use of tools machine. The structure must be able to withstand the launch loads. For this reason, several simulations using an FEM simulation and an intensive vibration test campaign will be performed in the system development and test phase.