A wireless addressing interface circuitry for microthruster array applications

Abstract

Purpose - The paper aims to develop a wireless addressing interface circuitry for solid propellant microthruster array applications. Design/methodology/approach - The solid propellant microthruster is a relatively new class of micropropulsion system for microspacecraft. To produce a controlled vectored thrust, a microthruster array is needed. Realization of the addressing ability and wireless communication is the key to the development of the microthruster array. Therefore, a prototype wireless addressing circuitry was developed to realize the addressing of the microthruster array by a multiplexing system. The addressing circuitry also enables measurement of the igniter temperature variation with time by measuring the igniter resistance change and automatic control by RS232 and RF wireless communications. Operating principles, design, fabrication, and testing of the circuitry are addressed. Findings - A prototype integrated wireless addressing circuitry was designed and fabricated to realize the addressing of individual microthrusters in the microthruster array, to measure the igniter temperature variation with time, and to achieve automatic control using RS232 and RF wireless communications. Using the programmable voltage source in the circuitry, the igniter temperature could be accurately controlled in 256 steps using an 8 bit word. The 10 bit analog-to-digital converter feedback loop circuitry enabled real-time monitoring of each igniter in the microthruster array and allowing each igniter to be functionally controlled. Originality/value - In this paper, a wireless addressing interface circuitry is developed for the first time for solid propellant microthruster array applications.