NEA Electronics, Inc. (NEA) is a manufacturer of electro-mechanical products, specializing in the development of innovative hold down and release mechanisms for the aerospace industry. NEA has designed and manufactured two prototype release mechanisms with unique capabilities. The Model 9111 rod release mechanism is simple, highly reliable, light weight and cost effective. It is capable of restraining up to 2500 lbs. of tension and releasing the load instantaneously upon electrical command. The source shock output is extremely low (less than 500 g,s) at the 2500 lb. preload. The model 9111 weighs 80 grams. The Model VBRM 2500 is an electrically and mechanically redundant release mechanism. This mechanism is designed to restrain a V-Band or marmon clamp up to a rated tensile load of 2000 pounds. Upon electrical command, the V-Band separates, nearly instantaneously, to allow the two restrained structures to separate. Prototypes of each mechanism have been built and preliminary testing has shown that these devices meet technical requirements. NEA is proposing to conduct additional development testing over a range of environment parameters simulating launch and space. Numerous customers and programs have shown interest in these products. The test results are intended to validate the products design, leading to qualification testing.
