Shown in the above video, the R3 Release Device (in blue) developed by Magna Parva Ltd is a novel low mass product for the latching and release of payloads from small spacecraft and UAVs. The video shows the device releasing a 5kg payload and the automatically resetting before the payload is reattached.
The Magna Parva R3 Resettable Restraint and Release Device (patent pending) has several advantages over existing technologies:
- Re-useable device thus highly cost effective.
- Available as primary release mechanism (active or passive) or secondary release mechanism (pinpuller).
- Reliable, re-settable, re-useable high force capability (circa 15N up to 30,000N, depending on size/configuration of unit)
- Very low power consumption. (circa 35mA, depending on size/configuration of unit).
- High force to mass/size ratio
- Negligible reaction load on operation.
- High speed reaction time (circa 10 milli-seconds, depending on size/configuration of unit)
The R3 Resettable Restraint and Release Device is designed for use in where requirements are stringent:
- Vibration - Secure under accelerations in excess of 2000g.
- Thermal - Positive, reliable operation and immune to inadvertent operation between -55oC and +180oC.
- EMP - Electrical characteristics and simple drive electronics easily designed to comply with HEMP requirements
- Volatiles - No volatiles are released during operation.