Engineering Datasheet
Equinox Hinge

Specifications

Type Composite Tape Spring
Material Woven Carbon Fiber
Mechanism Strain Energy / Self-Locking
Mass < 50g
Torque Margin > 2.0
Pointing < 0.1°
Op. Temp -40°C to +85°C
TRL 4-5 (Component)

Equinox Hinge

Self-Locking Composite Deployment

The Equinox Hinge is a next-generation deployment mechanism for CubeSat and SmallSat appendages. Utilizing a specific arrangement of three composite tape springs, it leverages stored strain energy to effect deployment with high torque margins.

Key Advantages: Self-Locking, Shock-Free, High Reliability (No friction/lube), and Zero Backlash.

Key Applications

Solar Arrays Panel & Wing Deployment
Antennas Precision Pointing
Instruments Remote Sensors
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Equinox Hinge

Equinox Hinge

Custom Order

Self-actuating, self-locking composite tape spring hinge for shock-free deployment of solar arrays and antennas. Inspired by the proven MAEVA design, it integrates deployment, guidance, and locking in a single compliant mechanism.

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The Equinox Hinge is a next-generation deployment mechanism for CubeSat and SmallSat appendages. Utilizing a specific arrangement of three composite tape springs (Buckling Composite Tape Springs), it leverages stored strain energy to effect deployment with high torque margins.

Key Advantages:

  • Self-Locking: The tape spring geometry naturally snaps into a rigid, locked state upon full deployment.
  • Shock-Free: Controlled release of strain energy minimizes deployment shock loads on sensitive payloads.
  • High Reliability: Monolithic composite construction eliminates friction-prone moving parts and lubrication needs.
  • Zero Backlash: The deployed hinge is structurally continuous, ensuring high stiffness and pointing accuracy.
Type Composite Tape Spring Hinge
Material Woven Carbon Fiber / Epoxy
Mechanism Strain Energy / Self-Locking
Deployment Angle 0° to 180° (Customizable)
Torque Margin > 2.0 (Typical)
Mass < 50g (Hinge Assembly)
Pointing Accuracy < 0.1°
Op. Temperature -40°C to +85°C
TRL 4-5 (Component Tested)

Perfect for:

  • Solar Array Deployment (Wing & Panel)
  • Antenna Pointing Mechanisms
  • Instrument Booms
  • SAR Radar Deployment

Get in Touch

Rahul Yadgirkar

Mechanical Engineer specializing in designing robust mechanisms, deployable structures, and precision systems for space applications.

Interested in our mechanisms? Contact us for custom orders, quotes, or collaboration inquiries.

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