Closing Force Evaluation of a Sample Return Capsule for a Phobos Sample Return Mission

The mission objective of the Phobos Sample Return is to collect and return 100 g Phobos’ surface material Earth inside a tight enclosure composed Vault, Container sealing elements. One important aspect project was development closing mechanism capable ensuring pushing force high enough compared available robotic arm (40 N). need for higher derived from design tests which were carried out experimentally determine necessary overcome resistance element when vault closed. Two types elements, custom made this project, along with two SC different geometrical shapes in area tested. For better accuracy, considered imposed operational temperature domain vault, ECSS standards test rig set-up being performed at environmental (+20 °C), −20 °C, −60 °C +70 °C. results highlighted that negative has significant influence over force, as increasing once decreasing. Based on work performed, most suitable type identified, particular piston geometry allows smaller close vault.