Thermal analysis of multifunctional structural battery for satellite applications

Multifunctional structures combine multiple functionalities in a single structural part in order to increase performance while limiting mass and volume. Conventional satellite batteries are designed separately as a stand-alone subsystem then added to satellite host structure in the last assembly, bringing assistant containers and connectors etc. that often cause undesirable mass loading effects and consume valuable space. Power subsystem and then the whole satellite can benefit from the introduction of multifunctionality as a means of improving overall system efficiency. This paper presents the investigation of a new multifunctional structural battery (MFSB) consisting of energy storage, energy supply, and load bearing ability in a single composite structural panel for satellite applications. Thermal vacuum testing (TVT) was carried out and transient thermal analysis was performed, and the results demonstrated that the current material formula and workmanship are viable in the space. When mounted within satellites as an equipment-panel, the designed MFSB panel can keep itself retaining the required operational temperature without supplementary thermal control approaches. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.