Mechanisms and pyros subsystem for the METEOSAT second generation

The mechanisms responsible for the ejection must face severe requirements: only one pyrotechnic is allowed for the baffle cover, the acoustic environment reaches levels of 146dB, the allowed mass is very low. These requirements have led to the use of preloaded supports such as the "flexible hinge", which is capable of supporting the cover and releasing it passively, without the use of telecommand.