#NASAMgUE Updates from #iNerdsMG

The team is in the final preparations. The updated technical proposal has been submitted. Testing of our SLEDs hinge on the Safety Evaluation section in the updated document. We actually ended up with two designs the team would like to ship to #JohnsonSpaceCenter.

Our initial design, after receiving the materials kit from NASA, did not have a stable frame to support the design. The cardboard paper towel rolls were not stable enough even with the addition of craft sticks taped to the inside of the cardboard frame.

First Design

As the team was looking for ways to shore up the stability of the structure, they came across the box the "satellite" came it. A light bulb suddenly went on that the students could use the box for the frame of their structure. Magnets were attached to the satellite and the front of the SLED to hold the satellite in place until deployment. This design utilizes a servo motor to close the claw. The claw pushes the satellite away launching it towards Mars' orbit. The challenge was generating enough force to successfully deploy the satellite. Even though the team was moving on to a third iteration, we didn't want to take apart a working design in case the next design didn't function.

Second Design: Claw SLED

 The third iteration was designed to produce more force. It still uses the same robotics components by Junior Botball, but the deployment device is a sort of crossbow. The force produced is greater. However, this device still has some programming issues to get the servo motor performing as desired.

Third Design: Crossbow SLED

SLEDs will be shipping this Friday, March 10.