Experimental Analysis of a Biologically Inspired Thermal-Structural Satellite Panel

Recently, there has been a surge in interest in biologically inspired or bio-mimetic structures where living organisms are used to provide guidance to improve overall performance of aerospace systems. In this study, an isogrid architecture for satellite electronics panels was investigated. Fluidic channels were incorporated into the structure, thus providing thermal management capability, in addition to structural support. To provide the surface area for heat transfer, a thin facesheet was mounted on the outside of the isogrid, also containing fluidic channels. The fluidic channels are analogous to a circulatory system in a biological organism. The primary supporting ribs act as arteries by providing the main flow supply and channels in the facesheet act as capillaries by providing the area coverage for heat transfer. Also incorporated into the structure was a passive-reactive valve designed to regulate coolant flow. The base of the valve was fabricated directly onto the thermal-structural panel and could be placed anywhere on the panel. This valve was designed to operate on the same principle as traditional automotive thermostats for regulating engine temperature. In addition, the valve was designed to utilize paraffin expansion properties for actuation. Although designed and built, the valve was not tested in these experiments and the results are focused on the thermal structural panel. Results indicate that this thermal control method provides satisfactory thermal management for standard satellite bus components.