Patterned magnetic hold and separation techniques to reduce pyrotechnic use

Use finely patterned magnetic interfaces to form a mechanism to hold an object to another main body. A finely patterned magnetic face has a near field reach, but significant strength, and may be capable of holding large amounts of mass per area. A staggered or sequenced release of magnetic areas within the pattern would allow for a separation event with reduced or eliminated shock.\nSimulate then demonstrate ability of patterned magnets to carry useful masses. Design and demonstrate release mechanism. Deliver report on aerospace feasibility.\n

Describe or demonstrate the ability of patterned magnets to hold and release significant mass, describe or demonstrate reduced shock loads and path to reduced drag in two-body systems.\n Today, stores and releasable payloads are transforming faster than their release mechanisms; scalability and flexibility are required to meet current and future needs which magnetics can address. Magnetics reduces the need for high energy drivers such as pyrotechnics and compressed air, and their associated complications. The mechanics of a magnetics system can be completely encapsulated leading to reduced wear and reduced maintenance time. Magnetics also introduces the ability to reconnect payloads if desired. Magnetic hold and separation technologies can benefit many fields involving water, air, and space. Potential benefits are available for anyone that require separation of two bodies, including DoD, NASA, and the civilian world.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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.