Patterned Magnetic Hold-Separate Tech Ph2

Stores are advancing faster than their release mechanisms, and soon further innovation will require release mechanisms to catch up... In particular, there needs to be separation mechanisms that reduce or eliminate the number of involved safety processes, that allow for various attachment configurations and separation functions, and that actuate more than once per mission. Also, mothership-drone designs are currently of high interest, and therefore the ability to recapture a store is of high importance. The magnetic separation technique addresses all these gaps. Due to its simple nature and small volume, such a system carries the benefit of scalability, flexibility in multi-point attachment, and real-time configurability. Also, most interestingly, a magnetic system has the benefit of store re-connection after separation. Phase 1 has already demonstrated feasibility, scalability, and multi-release synchronization by releasing 200+ pounds using two 100 pound capable attachment points in an in-line release mechanism. Further flexibility, scalability, and multi-release synchronization has been demonstrated by releasing a drone model using three 45 pound capable out-of-plane and angled attachment points. Phase 2 will further demonstrate the benefits of a magnetic release system. Phase 2 objectives will be two-fold: 1) Mimic to the greatest extent the abilities of MAU-12 to demonstrate flight feasibility and practicality. Matching the MAU-12 will also allow for direct comparison testing. 2) Continue to demonstrate the benefits of a magnetic release system beyond a traditional pyrotechnic release mechanism by demonstrating scalability, flexibility in multi-point attachment, and real-time configurability. Phase 2 will continue to scale up the in-line release system to hold 500+ pounds, and allow for a comparison test with a MAU-12. The out-of-plane release system will be upgraded to demonstrate re-configurability by attaching and releasing multiple drone models of different body styles. Furthermore, All attachment mechanisms used by in-line and out-of-plane systems will be upgraded with electromechanical ejectors to provide greater-than-gravity downward separation force. Quantitative tests will be conducted, including sheer resistance measurements, ejection characterization, and synchronization measurements. Phase 3 will further try to mimic the MAU-12 with an upgrade to the in-line system with increased weight holding capability and increase in downward ejection force. Also, the out-of-plane system will be upgraded to demonstrate real-time re-configuration by allowing for real-time actuated placement of attachment points to accommodate for different drone styles and changing ejection functions between drone launches. If possible, the CIF will partner with the model shop to demonstrate an actual in-flight drone launch and reattachment.

Reduced use of pyrotechnics, reduced safety processes, smooth OML produces less drag, no slag from pyrotechnic event, reduced or eliminated shock from release. Reduced design time and project cost for AFRC and NASA projects.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.