Dynamic structural analysis in a 2U CubeSat considering quasi-static loads

Abstract

Nowadays, the use of the CubeSat standard for satellites design has become a strong appliance in space industries and universities because of its low cost. In its simpler model, a CubeSat consists of a cubic nanosatellite with less than 1.33 kg and 10 cm of edge. The present work was done computational simulations using the finite element method since computational simulations are cheaper to do vibration tests. It was carried out modal analyses comparing five CubeSat structures, where it was evaluated the presence of electronic board (without electronic elements), static loads, two different aluminum alloys, and the influence of additional mass in the PCB (Printed Circuit Board). CAD software was used for the structures’ design following the CubeSat specifications, and all the simulations were carried out in a finite element software, in a range of 0 to 1000 Hz. It was designed one structure to do initial simulations, followed by the design of 4 structures more adjusted to the CubeSat requirements. In the end, results showed the influences of each present condition on the satellite. It was noticed that influences of the load in the vibration shape and less than 2% in other results. The material available to build a CubeSat for tests was validated concerning the recommended aluminum alloy.