A line drawing of a satellite with solar panels, a dish antenna, and various instruments.

Mod Sat

Mod Sat

The Mod Sat is a design for an attempted uni startup where we tried to modularize the subsystems of a satellite to make it easy for on-orbit servicing.

Context:

During my Undergrad, I was part of an attempted Satellite modularization startup. I was responsible for the structural and thermal design of the product. The product was an attempt to modularize the different subsystems of a satellite (like LEGO bricks), so that customers can easily build their own satellite, and it would also allow for on-orbit servicing by creating easy replacement of modules. We were also part of the national Cansat competition for funding where I designed the structural and aero components for our satellite.

Structural:

A computer-generated 3D model of a square mechanical component with a central hub and four extending arms, each connecting to a corner of the square frame.

I designed the docking and undocking systems for the modules to be integrated into the satellites. I was also part of designing the rails on the frames that dock into the exoskeleton of the modules, as well as the antenna deployment system for the modular satellite. The above structures were the result of intense testing on CAM software and reviews from scientists in ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization).

3D model of a metal window frame with multiple rectangular and square openings.

Aero:

Cross-section of a wooden acoustic panel with airflow channels and a backing material, featuring a spring-loaded screw attachment.

Electronics:

A diagram of an electronic device enclosure with a circuit board inside, connected by cables.
A 3D-rendered image of a modular, geometric cube frame made of black metal with numerous cutouts and interlocking joints.
A detailed technical diagram of a robotic arm with multiple joints and segments, mounted on a circular base with supporting structures.
A tall, rectangular electronic device with multiple yellow panels and a digital display at the bottom, featuring a ring on top.
3D model of a cylindrical structure with interior partitions and cutouts, viewed from above.

I was in charge of the Aero subsystem for the Cansat competition, which is a national competition for university-level teams to design and test the best mechanism that allows a satellite to safely land back on Earth. we designed a helicopter-like autorotate mechanism for the satellite, that helps stabilize the satellite before the parachute is deployed

A disassembled mechanical clock showing the internal gears, circuit board, and battery.
Illustration of a laser turret with a rotating barrel and color-coded laser beams.
An industrial motor with a square metal housing and a circular connector on top.

I also worked with the ADCS (Attitude Determination and Control System) and ADS (Antenna Deployment System). Here, I helped design the 3 gyroscopes involved in determining the spatial orientation of the satellite in space. In the antenna deployment system, I was involved in both the burning fuse mechanism and the electronics involved in achieving the result