Suggest a Hatch Design for Space Capsule Tycho Deep Space

Suggest a Hatch Design for Space Capsule Tycho Deep Space:

The hatch opening needs a hatch... Image: Kristian von Bengtson

Dear reader,

I would like to present an opportunity for you all with an open assignment for the Tycho Deep Space capsule hatch. We are currently at a development stage where this hatch design must be decided soon for prototype production the next couple of months.

So, if you believe you are up for the task please join the development process of this DIY project. E-mail me your ideas as 2D, 3D, hand sketches (well, anything) using the address in the header.

Please remember to send me your name, rank and number so I can present your work properly because your idea might end up at Wired like all the great work done by readers on the uprighting system for the same space capsule.

Main objective:

Designing a hatch for space capsule Tycho Deep Space used for the preliminary test flight launched by the BIG-LES engine. This capsule prototype will likely be used for this mission only, meaning that this early hatch design should be considered a precursor for future designs.

As seen below the capsule will have a low-attitude trajectory (maximum 1 km) flying only a dummy lowering the requirements for pressure containment and operations. However, the requirements for withstanding the forces during splash down remains the same. Any suggestion that is able to cope with the requirements for a final flight to above 100 km such as: pressure, opening from outside AND inside, are just as welcome.

Capsule parachute test mission summer 2012, apogee 1 km. Image: Kristian von Bengtson

Main design drivers:

- Internal pressure of capsule 1 atm.

- Door opening area app. 0,36 sqm.

- Must hold internal pressure at apogee 1 km, and if possible 100 km (3,6 tonnes).

- Inwards or outwards opening as free choice (inwards preferred).

- Must not conflict with existing internal structures (seat, chute compartments etc).

- Easy operation (opening, handling).

- Opening/closing from outside (future design also from inside due to safety).

- Please, avoid any fancy mechanics and hinges.

- The hatch front must match the shape of the capsule.

Production/materials:

The design and production must be compatible with:

- Final production by hand, welding, angle grinder tools etc.

- Laser cutting when needed (no fancy 3-D machining).

- All materials in plain carbon steel.

- All measurements in mm.

- The opening is created in 2 mm steel plates.

Additional notes:

Please remember that the assignment is not only “a hatch” but must also contain the necessary frame structure around the hull opening to withstand the major forces due to the internal pressure of the capsule. Also, do not forget that inwards opening systems require that you are capable of actually pulling the hatch door through the opening inside the capsule. We do not mind using regular oldschool bolts for closing a hatch but it is up to you, to decide how to do it…

You can download a design-package here containing (2.1 Mb, ZIP):

- hatch opening 2D, flat (.dwg)

- hatch opening (quarter capsule side) 3D, (.iges, .stl)

- Tycho Deep Space capsule 3D, (iges, .stl)

Below you can see a sketch I made last night based on the ideas Claus Nørregaard and I have so far regarding a inwards opening hatch system. The sketch presents an idea creating a flat inner surface for easier production and much better sealing between the actual hatch and the frame.

Sketch. Inner flat surface created for better sealing. How do you wanna do it?. Sketch: Kristian von Bengtson

However, this is just one idea but since there are as many ideas as people I will try to summon your brains with this task.

Should you have any questions please E-mail me.

Once again, I am looking forwards to see more interesting work from interested readers.

Have a great weekend.

Ad Astra

Kristian von Bengtson