The YODA structure is comprised of 1/2 in foam core and consists of a series of circular plates on which subsystems are mounted using velcro. A foam core shroud envelopes these discs and provides longitudinal stiffness and is attached to the plates with velcro strips spaced every 4 in. The first plate is (4in) above the base plate. In this compartment the bulk of the electrical system resides. The batteries and power regulator are situated on one side, C&DH and Comm are located on this trey as well to maintain close proximity to power. A section of the shroud was removed to accomodate the sun sensor and provide a 120 field of view. The thermal sensor hardware is also based on this plate.
The payload is contained on the second shelf which was reinforced for launch loads. The motor is submerged in this plate with one end protruding downward into the bottom compartment. The opposite end of the drive train faces upward and is affixed to a 12in screw which acts to raise and lower the payload.
A top plate rests at the top of the first section and provides lateral support to the payload enclosure. A second section was added to shield "R2D2's head" and to increase the asthetic value to those observing.
A central column supports the bottom plate while the housing which prevents the payload from wandering out of alignment provide increased strength for launch loads. The structure is also designed to have physical features similar to those of R2D2.
