Description: Dynovas’ Motorless Array Deployment Energy System prototype will demonstrate the deployment of a 10 kW, ~180 W/kg, ~60 kW/m3 array using entirely motorless actuation of bi-stable composite structures at TRL 6. The prototype will be prepared for a 2023 lunar demonstration with potential integration partner, Intuitive Machines. The proposed prototype will consist of two (2) bi-stable composite beams (targeted thickness of 0.66 mm). On the surface of the beams will be integrated piezoelectric or smart material motorless actuators (as demonstrated in Phase I). The actuators will be spaced along the length of the beam to control the vertical deployment and retraction of the MAD Energy system. During deployment and once deployed, the “c”-shaped bi-stable composite MAD Energy booms deliver the necessary stiffness and area moment of inertia for stable operation on the Lunar surface. The far end of the booms will connect directly to the array roll mandrel. The array roll mandrel includes a central rotation axis, composite ribs, outer mandrel surface, and axially mounted constant force springs. The membrane of the MAD Energy array will provide its own inherent stiffness. The semi-rigid membrane will consist of an approximately 2-ply, unidirectional glass substrate (0.15 mm). In Phase II, Dynovas will focus the development on the MAD Energy system and not on the solar cells and/or electrical circuits themselves. However, a detailed understanding of the array power module and circuitry is required to design the multi-functional membrane and the MAD Energy booms with the force necessary to deploy and retract 10+ kW arrays. The MAD Energy structure mounts to the array stowage box. The seal on the box works in concert with piezo vibration and the Lunar Electrostatic Array Deflector Shield (LEADS) to mitigate dust effects. The Dynovas delivers to the market an agile, independent, small business supplier of solar array structures and system.

Benefits: The MAD Energy system aligns with the NASA taxonomy category TX03.1.1 Photovoltaic sub-group, which includes 25-150 kW class solar arrays and reliably retractable solar arrays, which are directly applicable to the MAD energy system. Furthermore, the Lunar surface missions are an explicit mission plan on the Technology Area 3 – Space Power and Energy Storage Roadmap enabling technologies. Specific NASA missions include: Artemis Asteroid Redirect Luna Surface Exploration Mars Moons Mars Orbit/Surface Exploration

Power generation for networks of satellites and/or cube satellites for global communication networks; operation on spacecraft for orbiting debris removal, experimentation satellites, etc; non-space-based markets could include remotely operated electrically driven vehicles or deployment with Special Operators or forward deployed military facilities for on-demand power.