CubeSat is a small, low-cost satellite, usually designed in the shape of a cube, with a side length of 10 centimeters and a volume of about 1 liter. Typically built and launched by universities, research institutes, and small businesses, Cubesats experience huge vibrations during launch, which can cause damage to the satellite’s structure and internal components and even cause mission failure. Therefore, rigorous cubesat vibration testing prior to launch is critical to ensure CubeSat reliability and safety.
In order to ensure that the Cubesats can withstand the harsh environment of the launch process, we conducted dynamic environmental testing. There are two main types of such tests: shock test and vibration test.
Using the JOEO shaker table vibration, we performed vibration tests on the subcomponents of the Cubesat according to the specified criteria. Sub-components tested include: Satellite computer, battery box, power regulator and magnetic field regulator cards.
In order to simulate the rocket launch environment and prove to the launch agency that the Cubesat can withstand the huge load during launch, we conducted a comprehensive dynamic environment test on the spacecraft. The tests covered all three axes, ensuring the structural integrity of the system to cope with the various vibrations and shocks that may occur during launch.
To find the resonant frequency of the system and identify its vibration pattern, we tested it using a 20kN vibrator provided by CSF. The vibrator moves the test bench at a specific frequency from 5Hz to 2000Hz to simulate the vibration environment during the launch. Piezoelectric accelerometers mounted on the test module and Cubesats are used to sense the resonant frequency and response of the system
The CubeSat underwent rigorous random vibrations in the test that were defined by specific frequency ranges and amplitude/power spectral density boundaries that simulated the real environment during the launch. After these vibration tests, the team functionally validated the CubeSat platform and payload and performed simplified health checks and functional tests of all subsystems. Some issues were discovered during testing, but were eventually resolved.
As one of the top five vibration test system manufacturers in China, JOEO has more than 20 years of professional experience. Our product quality is comparable to Dongling, STI, vibration test system is known for its excellent performance and reliability, can meet a variety of stringent test needs, committed to aerospace, automotive, communications, battery and other industries to provide high-quality vibration test solutions.
