scope:

Abstract:

Component manufacturer's advisories, along with low-inductance ground and power planes/paths within subsystems, must be heeded.

Following the recommendations from the X43A Flight 1 MIB, the Pegasus actuator system was redesigned to accommodate the need for greater hinge torque. The analog-based legacy actuator system was redesigned for digital drive of the power output stage to the actuators, an additional actuator was incorporated to provide the necessary torque including margins, and the power supply was increased to provide the required 80+ amps, instead of the previous 40 amp capability.

Multiple failures during qualification testing, and the subsequent technical investigations, proved the lack of understanding between the ideal circuit operation and the impact of system implementation. Low-inductance ground and power planes/paths within subsystems are essential for proper operation.