Hold Down and Release System (HDRS)

Dutch Space provides a so-called Hold-Down and Release System – based on the thermal cutting of Kevlar cable – on their solar panels.

Status: Completed
From January 2012 until December 2013
Dutch Space • Design Project

Challenge

Characterization tests aimed at deepening and broadening the knowledge of the behavior of the cables under conditions more extreme than the qualification limits. In addition, design of new HDRS options to position Dutch Space even better in this competitive market.

Solution

Kevlar cables, which are used within the HDRS, prove to be very reliable and provide much clarity on all levels at the nominal operating window. The challenge in the market to extend this window is addressed by developing alternative concepts, which make the system more broadly applicable in general without compromising reliability.

Application

This system combines the conflicting demands of reliably holding the solar panels on the satellite for launch, and securely releasing the solar panels in space.

Contribution HIT

Heemskerk Innovative Technology assists the core team in the development and the characterization and qualification program for the next generation of this system.