Copyright PSC
2000781K MkII MLB Operating Procedure
Page 5 of 68
2.
Introduction
2.1 Scope
This document describes the steps required to adjoin and operate the MKII Motorized Lightband (MLB). Training
and certification by Planetary Systems Corp (PSC), verified via PSC document
3000224 MLB Training Record
,
are required to operate any Lightband. The Training Record also specifies the
certification’s expiration date.
Ensure this is the latest version of the document by visiting PSC’s website,
http://www.planetarysystemscorp.com
If the version trained on was older than that on the website contact PSC to discuss the changes before
continuing.
Read this entire document before attempting any procedures. This document shall be completed in order. Steps
shall never be skipped unless specifically permitted otherwise.
Contact PSC to clarify any ambiguity or to answer any other questions.
2.2 Lightband Description
The Lightband is comprised of two separable halves. The Lower Ring contains the Hinged Leaves, Retaining
Ring, Motor Bracket Assembly (MBA) and Separation Springs. The Upper Ring, smaller and lighter, contains both
the Leaf engagement grooves and the spring plungers that help the Leaves disengage from the accepting groove.
Typically, the Lower Ring is attached to the launch vehicle (LV) and the Upper Ring is attached to the space
vehicle (SV). The electrical interface to operate the Lightband is a DB-9 socket connector on the outside of the
MBA. See Figure 2-1 to Figure 2-6. For more information on the Lightband see PSC document
2000785 MkII
MLB User Manual
.
The Lightband is not ESD-sensitive.
There are four Lightband operations that shall always be performed in order. The Lightband shall always be
attached to adjoining structures per section 6 prior to performing any of these operations.
Table 2-1: Lightband operations
Operation
Description
Requires
electrical
power to the
motors?
Applicable
Section
Mate
Placing the Upper Ring on the Lower Ring and then compressing the
Separation Springs.
No
Stow
The electric motors drive components in the Lightband that
mechanically lock together the Lower Ring and Upper Ring.
Yes
Set-For-
Flight
The electric motors move internal components of the Motor Bracket
Assembly at low voltage to minimize separation time and standard
deviation. This also verifies motor torque margin prior to Deploying.
Yes
Deploy
(separate)
The electric motors drive components that mechanically release the
Lower and Upper Rings. In flight, the Separation Springs will then
elongate and impart relative velocity between the two Rings. On the
ground, the Springs may not elongate due to compressive weights.
Yes
