2026_2027 Passive Cargo Restraints for Unused Payload Locations

Objective: School Year 2026-2027

• Finalize drawing with appropriate hardware and any soft goods identified, CAD/ Prototypes using designs brought forward from school year 2025-26

• Finalize concepts

• Digital models and designs to be handed off for evaluation and inclusion in rack model.

Original Objective 2025-2026: Design a cargo enclosure to attach in empty payload enclosures slots. The primary function of the container is to be utilized for stowage of cargo as needed and to utilize unused payload locations.

Problem to Solve:

• Logistics Module (LM) will have mounting locations for 4-8 powered payload enclosures

• When all enclosure locations are not in use, design a stowage enclosure that will help utilize that location most efficiently.

• Can be hardware, soft goods, or a combination.

Key Features:

• Possibly a rigid enclosure (or skeleton structure) that would attach to unused Powered Payload Enclosure mounting locations.

• Current assumption is to make these capable of restraining small, loose, soft stow items.
  

• Design the cargo enclosure for ease of manufacturing by reducing milling or Lathe operations and by utilizing alternative manufacturing methods, such as a waterjet cutting and sheet metal.
• The use of COTs where possible is encouraged.
• Must interface and install with the standardized payload attachment mechanisms.
• Easily operated opened and closed by one hand but still utilize a locking feature that prevents accidental disengagement of the locking mechanism.
• Reference marks are present to aid in indicating a locked / unlocked condition.
  
  
• Avoid creating pinch points while opening and closing.
  
• Use only aerospace approved materials.
• More information is listed on the Flight Configuration Canvas resource.

More information is listed on the Flight Configuration Canvas resource.