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The turn down ratio (on/off conductance) for NASA state-of-the-art MER paraffin thermal switchs is ~ 100:1 in vacuum and less in non-vacuum. The proposed device will offer a turn down ratio of 2500:1 in vacuum and 150:1 in non-vacuum. The higher turn down ratio correlates to a significant reduction in heat loss when 'off', reduced heater power requirements, prolonged operation, and better survivability. Differential Thermal Expansion switches exists, but do not provide appropriate on/off functionality or the desired turndown ratios in non-vacuum environments. The first objective of this CIF is to develop a new extended stroke reverse-operation (keeps heat in when cold) differential thermal expansion thermal switch that can operate in both vacuum and non-vacuum environments. The new device functioning with new materials and multiple expansion/contraction stages will lead to expanded NTR/Patent application and enable enhanced lunar, mars and deep space NASA and commercial missions. The next step after this years work is to integrate the switch to be used to to thermally control payloads on a lunar lander (Astrobotic Peregrine).
The proposed innovation is disruptive and enabling. DTE thermal switches exist, but do not provide appropriate on/off functionality nor desired turn down ratio in non-vacuum. The new device functioning with new materials and multiple expansion/contraction stages will lead to expanded NTR/Patent application, & enable enhanced lunar, mars & deep space NASA & commercial missions.
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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.
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