CUBICS

Responsible: @Levi Sulzle
Accountable: @Levi Sulzle , @Saksham Verma
Consulted: @Saksham Verma , @Ben Harbarenko
Informed: Mechanical Team

What: Document a formal trade study to understand the feasibility of using Nitinol in Hyperion hinges. Research and compile your learnings in a design document (use format as provided in attached document but do note that you are not expected to make a 50 pages doc, 3-4 pages will suffice). The trade study must discuss in detail subjects ranging but not limited to: science, off-gassing, thermal properties, manufacturing processes, mechanical properties, operating temperatures, existing research with compliant mechanisms and more.
Feel free to consult with me regarding the design document!

Why: Nitinol is an interesting material with memory-retention properties which can be actuated by reaching certain temperature thresholds. If possible, it might be used in compliant mechanism hinge designs and has potential to be a viable material for future missions.