3 – Generic Clamping System Design (Hold Down Clamps)

Name of the system:

Generic Clamping System Design (Hold Down Clamps)

Lead entity within the SAMMBA consortium:

MT Aerospace (reach out to us here)

Attachment point within the process chain of the Spaceport operator:

The system responsible for clamping the microlauncher for transport and launch purposes

Major benefit within the process chain:

A generic clamping system allows for an increase in compatibility with multiple launchers and thus removes the need for launcher-specific mechanisms.

Anticipated R&D vector for the near/mid/long-term:

The near-term anticipated efforts include the implementation of the system as a used industry standard. In the medium term, the system could be updated and scaled to hold down larger launch vehicles.

Modularity granted with the following standards:

The Generic Clamping System doesn’t require special modifications and can be used at any spaceport.

Interoperability granted with the following standards:

To ensure interoperability, standards covering the launcher, erection/retraction system, and selected sensors (for launch: clamping needs to “open”) are needed.

Systems interfaced:

Launcher, Launch base, AGV, mechanical structures