Interface for securing a load to a platform attached to a space launch vehicle or a satellite

Abstract

The invention relates to an interface (4) for securing a load to be placed in orbit to a launch platform, the interface comprising two plates (10, 12) borne by the platform and by the load, respectively. The plates can be secured to one another. A first plate bears at least two locking elements (14) which are movable between two states. In the approach state, the plates can be brought together without being locked by the locking elements. In the locked state, the plates are secured together, a bolt of each locking element engaging with a keep on the second plate. The locking elements can adopt an intermediate, captive state, in which they engage with the second plate while allowing translational and rotational movements, within predetermined ranges, thereof. The transition from the captive state to the locked state gradually causes the plates to rotate and translate into the secured position.

Description

[0001] Description Title of the invention: Interface for securing a payload to a platform attached to a space launcher or satellite

[0002] 1. Scope of the invention

[0003] The field of the invention is that of space transport. More specifically, the invention relates to the attachment of objects, hereinafter referred to as payloads (satellite, probe, satellite module, etc.), to a launch platform fixed to a space launcher or an artificial satellite.

[0004] 2. Prior art

[0005] Space transportation is a rapidly expanding field. Once the exclusive domain of government agencies (NASA, ESA, etc.), the entry of private actors into this sector has helped to democratize access. It is now easier and more economical to launch a probe or satellite into orbit, and these are no longer solely intended for military or research purposes. This democratization has led to the rise of numerous services, such as satellite constellations enabling internet access across the globe.

[0006] This massification of the space market leads, on the one hand, to an increasing miniaturization of payloads to be put into orbit, and on the other hand, to a reduction in launch costs. Indeed, the more satellite manufacturers there are, the more R&D in the field progresses, resulting in increasingly lighter and more compact payloads.

[0007] However, the increasing number of actors involved and the reduction in payloads to be put into orbit mean that a single launcher must concentrate a multitude of heterogeneous payloads into orbit. Indeed, it is possible to send dozens of payloads of varying sizes, shapes, and masses into orbit with a launch of just a few tons. This leads to a need for standardization in the packaging and transport of payloads, and a need for simplification in their handling, particularly in microgravity.

[0008] For this purpose, the SI ROM system ("Standard Interface for Robotic Manipulation") from SENER Aerospace® is well-known. This system features a modular, block-based approach, offering a multifunctional "generic" interface (mechanical, electrical, computer, and thermal coupling). The system comprises an "active" part and a "passive" part. The attachment and release of a load are achieved using hooks mounted on the active part. Once retracted, these hooks can secure the passive part to the active part in a "capture" state.

[0009] However, while this "all-in-one" interface effectively simplifies the handling of heterogeneous payloads, it has drawbacks in terms of weight and size: it is heavy (1.7 kg) and thick (over 8 cm). Furthermore, for the hooks to properly secure the assembly, the passive part (i.e., the payload) must be positioned very precisely relative to the active part, at 15 mm axially and 5 mm radially. Therefore, the handling of payloads in orbit must be extremely precise, making payload manipulation by robots complex.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for an interface that does not present these drawbacks.

[0011] 3. Description of the invention

[0012] The invention improves the situation. To this end, the invention proposes an interface for attaching a payload, intended for orbit, to a launch platform. The interface comprises a first plate carried by said platform and a second plate carried by said payload, said plates being intended to be pressed against each other in a position of attachment. The interface is remarkable in that said first plate carries at least two locking elements movable between two states: a first state, called the approach state, allowing said plates to be brought close to each other without said locking elements interacting with said second plate, in a pre-assembly position, and a second state, called the locking state, in which said plates are in said attachment position.a portion forming the bolt of each of said locking elements engages with a corresponding portion, forming a strike plate, provided for this purpose on the second plate, in that said locking elements are placed in an intermediate state, called the capture state, from the pre-assembly position, in which the portion forming the bolt of each of said locking elements engages with the second plate while allowing translational and rotational movements of the second plate relative to the first plate within predetermined translational and rotational ranges, and in that said locking elements are actuated to pass from the capture state to the locking state, thus progressively bringing the plates into said locking position through rotation and translation.

[0013] This novel docking interface significantly improves payload handling, particularly in orbit. Indeed, in addition to providing a locked state (in which the payload is firmly attached to the launch platform), the docking interface also features a capture state. This capture state allows the payload to be secured near the launch platform and then progressively moved to its docking position in the locked state.

[0014] This interface is particularly compact and lightweight, thanks to the use of plates pressed together in a locked position. This allows for a greater payload capacity during launch.

[0015] To secure the load to the launch platform, the second plate (also called the key), and therefore the load, is brought into a position relatively close to the first plate (also called the lock), and thus to the platform. The first plate can then grasp the second plate in the capture state. This position is inherently more forgiving than the exact position in which the second plate is locked against the first plate (locked state), due to the permitted angular and linear movement. The locking elements, transitioning from the capture state to the locked state, then more or less gradually bring the second plate, and therefore the load, firmly immobilized against the first plate, thus securing the load to the platform.

[0016] Positioning the payload for securing it to the launch platform is considerably simplified. This is particularly advantageous for robotic payload capture and securing, as the payload placement for securing is more forgiving, since there is no need to position the payload in the exact position for attachment to the platform.

[0017] The grip allows the locking elements to press the second plate against the first plate. This prevents any movement (rotation or translation) of the second plate relative to the first. The resulting connection is particularly resilient to both shocks and accelerations, thanks to the large contact area between the plates. This allows the connection interface to withstand the stresses induced by a rocket launch into orbit.

[0018] The presence of at least two locking elements allows the secured interface to withstand the accelerations induced by a takeoff. Furthermore, this enables load capture even in the event of a failure of one of the at least two locking elements.

[0019] According to a particular aspect, each locking element comprises at least one first relief and the second plate comprises a second relief, the first relief and the second relief having complementary shapes and coming into mutual contact when the locking elements are in the locked state.

[0020] Thanks to their complementary shapes, the plates interlock when joined, in a precise and predetermined position. Thus, the locking position is precisely achieved in the locked state.

[0021] According to a particular aspect, the second plate has at least one guide track capable of cooperating with a bolt-forming portion of the locking element to guide the second plate towards the locking position.

[0022] According to a particular aspect, each guide track comprises a lateral face forming a portion of a spiral by portion forming a bolt, the portions of the spiral being concentric, and when the locking elements are actuated to secure the plates, each of the portions forming a bolt is moved radially outwards and against a portion of the spiral, thus rotating the second plate to the position of securing.

[0023] Thanks to the spiral portion, the radial elongation of the locking elements and the stop of the bolts against the spiral supports allows the self-centering of the second ceiling on the first ceiling, ensuring precise positioning in the solidarization position while presenting a very simple kinematic.

[0024] According to a particular aspect, a container designed to accommodate a load is fixed to the second ceiling, the wall of the container being made of a thermally insulating material and an opening of which is closed by the second ceiling, and in which the first ceiling and the second ceiling are each made of a thermally conductive material.

[0025] Due to their respective thermally conductive materials, the two ceilings are positively coupled, creating a bond. This thermal coupling is all the more effective when the two ceilings are pressed together, as the contact surface between them is large.

[0026] In fact, thanks to this configuration, in which the payload is housed in a container where only the surface formed by the second ceiling is thermally conductive, heat exchange between the inside of the container (i.e., the payload) and the outside can be easily controlled. This makes it possible to manage this heat exchange from the launch platform, or in other words, to control the temperature inside the container.

[0027] According to one particular aspect, the interface comprises an even number of locking elements, each ceiling exhibiting a central symmetry.

[0028] The central symmetry of the ceilings, i.e., their invariance under 180° rotation, simplifies the placement of the ceilings. It is thus possible to secure the second ceiling (and therefore the load) to within a half-turn, which simplifies loading maneuvers, particularly in weightlessness.

[0029] According to a particular aspect, the interface comprises a number of four multi-layer locking elements, the second ceiling and the first ceiling each exhibiting a symmetry by rotation of 90°.

[0030] The 90° rotational symmetry, i.e., a quarter turn, further improves the simplicity of positioning the load on the platform. Securing the load to the platform is also simplified. Furthermore, the presence of four or more locking elements allows the system to withstand a liftoff even if two elements are defective.

[0031] According to a particular aspect, the first ceiling has an even number of first electrical connectors arranged in central symmetry, and in which the second ceiling has the same number of complementary second electrical connectors arranged analogously to the first electrical connectors, the first ceiling having a plurality of lights arranged to correspond to the location of the first electrical connectors.

[0032] The invention further relates to a first platform, designed to be carried by a launch platform for placing at least one payload into orbit, said first platform being designed to receive, pressed against it in a position called "solidarisation" (fixed position), a second platform attached to a payload to be placed into orbit. The platform is remarkable in that it carries at least two locking elements movable between two states: a first state, called "approach" state, allowing said platforms to be brought close to each other without said locking elements interacting with said second platform, in a pre-assembly position, and a second state, called "locking" state, in which said platforms are in said "solidarisation" position, a bolt-forming port on each of said locking elements engaging with a corresponding strike plate, provided for this purpose on the second platform.in that said locking elements are placed in an intermediate state, called the capture state, from the pre-assembly position, in which the bolt-forming portion of each of said locking elements engages with the second plate while allowing translational and rotational movements of the second plate relative to the first plate within predetermined translational and rotational ranges, and in that said locking elements are actuated to pass from the capture state to the locking state, thus progressively bringing the plates into said locked position through rotation and translation.

[0033] The invention further relates to a space platform having a flat face on which are arranged a plurality of first plates according to the preceding claim.

[0034] 4. List of figures

[0035] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the following description of a particular embodiment, given by way of simple illustrative and non-limiting example, and the accompanying drawings, among which:

[0036] [fig. 1] represents an orbital launch platform equipped with an interface according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0037] [fig. 2] presents a perspective view of the interface of figure 1;

[0038] [fig. 3] presents a perspective view of the interface of figure 2, in a state known as solidarisafon;

[0039] [fig. 4] presents a cross-sectional view of the interface of figure 3;

[0040] [fig. 5] presents a perspective view of a locking element of the interface of figure 2;

[0041] [fig. 6] represents a composite link between the locking element of figure 5 and the actuator of figure 3;

[0042] [fig- 7] presents a schematic view of the kinematics of the solidarisafon of the interface of figure 3;

[0043] [fig. 8] represents a kinematic of this locking element of figure 7 in the frame of reference of the first plate;

[0044] [fig. 9] presents a rear view, load side, of the interface of figure 2;

[0045] [fig. 10] presents a plurality of top, side and bottom views of the interface in a plurality of successive positions between the state of the interface in figure 2 and the state of solidarisation of the interface in figure 3;

[0046] [fig. U] schematically represents a platform designed to accommodate a plurality of loads

[0047] [fig. 12] represents the footprint of three charge formats compatible with the platform in figure 11;

[0048] [fig. 13] presents a top view of a plate of the interface of figure 2;

[0049] [fig. 14] presents a profile view and an exploded perspective view of a container fixed to the plate of figure 13 and intended to house a load; [fig. 15] schematically represents a thermal coupling that can be implemented by the interface of figure 2;

[0050] [Fig. 16] presents a perspective view of the electrical and electronic portion of the interface in Figure 2; and

[0051] [fig. 17] presents an example of a mechanism for synchronously moving the locking elements of the interface of figure 2.

[0052] 5. Detailed description

[0053] The general principle of the invention is based on a fastening interface comprising two plates intended to be pressed together by locking elements, the whole fastening interface being designed so that the approach of the plates under the action of the locking elements causes them to center and align, without imposing a precise positioning at the beginning of the approach, so as to operate both a fastening and a precise positioning of the load on a platform.

[0054] The attachment interface that is the subject of this invention is designed to interface—as its name suggests—between a mobile payload and a platform attached to a satellite or a space launch vehicle. This standardized interface allows payloads to be attached to a satellite, as shown in Figure 1, as well as to a space launch vehicle. This facilitates both the easy installation of a module on a satellite in orbit and its subsequent retrieval for return to Earth.

[0055] Reference is made to Figures IA and IB. Figure IA represents an assembly comprising a satellite 1 with a platform 2 on which are attached a plurality of payloads housed in containers 3-1, 3-2, and 3-3 via a plurality of interfaces 4-1, 4-2, 4-3, and 4-4. Each interface 4-1 to 4-4 provides an interface between the platform 2 and one of the containers 3-1, 3-2, and 3-3. Each container 3-1 to 3-3 is thus connected to the platform 2 by one or more interfaces 4-i.

[0056] For the remainder of this description, i will be a number between 1 and N with N the number of interfaces, and j a number between 1 and M where M is the number of containers.

[0057] Platform 2 defines its own orthonormal coordinate system R = (X, Y, Z). Each container 3-j also has its own coordinate system Rj, which coincides with the coordinate system R of platform 2 when the container is attached to the platform. The Z-axis defines a radial direction.

[0058] Containers are represented here; however, one or more of these containers can be replaced by a "bare" payload, that is, one that is not housed in a container. This bare payload could be, for example, an instrumentation module for an observation satellite.

[0059] Figure IB schematically represents a set of locations 5-1, 5-2, 5-3 and 5-4 (one per interface 4-i) intended to receive loads, as well as the relative arrangement of containers 3-1, 3-2 and 3-3 represented by respective footprints 6-1, 6-2 and 6-3 in dotted lines.

[0060] Each location 5-i delimits a square of dimension U, where U is a standardized quantity as will be seen below. Locations 5-1 to 5-4 together form a tiling (at least partial) of platform 2, that is to say, they together cover the surface of platform 2 intended to receive loads, which surface covers all or part of one side of platform 2.

[0061] Each 3-j container has a respective 6-j footprint. The 6-1, 6-2, and 6-3 footprints of containers 6-1 through 6-3 each occupy an integer number of locations 5-1 through 5-4. Here, containers 3-1 and 3-2 have respective 6-1 and 6-2 footprints occupying one 5-i location, while container 3-3 has a 6-3 footprint occupying two adjacent 5-i locations.

[0062] Of course, other container combinations can be attached to this platform, for example, four containers each occupying one space, or two containers each occupying two spaces (footprint of dimension U x 2U), or one container occupying all four spaces (footprint of dimension 2U x 2U). Other tilings for other platforms can also be considered, as this system offers great flexibility.

[0063] Reference is now made to figures 2, 3 and 4, which represent a 4-point joining interface, intended to play the role of 4-i interface as in the system of figures IA and IB.

[0064] Interface 4 comprises a first plate 10 and a second plate 12. The first plate 10 is intended to be supported by the platform 2. The second plate 12 is intended to be attached to a load (for example, to the underside of one of the containers 3-j in Figure 1). In Figure 3, the first plate 10 and the second plate 12 are pressed together in a position known as the "locking" position.

[0065] The first and second turntables, 10 and 12, are both square. Furthermore, the first and second turntables, 10 and 12, are of identical or nearly identical dimensions, although this is not essential.

[0066] The first plate 10 carries at least two locking elements 14-k, where k is a number between 1 and K, and K is the number of locking elements. In this case, the first plate 10 of interface 4 in Figures 2 and 3 carries four locking elements 14-1, 14-2, 14-3 and 14-4.

[0067] The locking elements 14-k are movable between a first state and a second state (shown in Figure 3). The first state, called the approach or released state, allows the plates 10 and 12 to be separated or brought together as desired, without the locking elements hindering this. This state is also called the released or free state, because the locking elements 14-k allow the second plate 12 to move freely in the Z direction. This free state can also be called the open state, and the locked state the closed state, like a lock.

[0068] In the second state, referred to as the locking state, the two plates are pressed against each other by means of the locking elements 14-k. This state of attachment, or locking, is more particularly visible in Figure 3. More precisely, a bolt-forming portion 140 of each locking element 14-k engages with a corresponding strike plate 120 provided for this purpose in the second plate 12 so as to firmly immobilize the second plate 12 relative to the first plate 10.

[0069] In the free state, the first plate 10 and the second plate 12 can then be brought together in a so-called pre-assembly position.

[0070] The locking elements can be placed in an intermediate, or "captured," state when the ceilings 10 and 12 are in their pre-assembled position. In this captured state, the bolt-forming pore 140 of each of the locking elements 14-k engages with the second ceiling 12 while allowing the second ceiling to move in both lateral and radial motions relative to the first ceiling within predetermined lateral and radial motion ranges. The fact that the second ceiling 12 is free within a predetermined lateral and radial motion range makes it free in both radial and lateral motions, while keeping it close to the first ceiling 10 and preventing it from overturning (the load or container attached to the second ceiling remains correctly oriented).

[0071] The locking elements 14-k are connected by a linking member 16, so as to be moved between the open state, the capture state, and the unlocked state. By being driven from the capture state to the unlocked state, the locking elements 14-k progressively bring the first plate 10 and the second plate 12 from the pre-assembly position to the unlocked position in translation and rotation.

[0072] This intermediate, capture state is particularly advantageous in that it allows a load to be captured, with the second ceiling fixed with a greater tolerance for placement. All positions of the second ceiling 12 between the pre-assembly position and the locking position can allow the load to be captured. Reference is made to Figures 4 to 6. The bolt-forming portion 140 of one of the locking elements 14-k (also referred to as 14, for brevity) has a flat surface that extends radially. The locking element 14 is pivotally mounted on an axis 144 housed in an oblong hole 146 formed in the locking element 14. The axis 144 is fixed to the first plate 10, here by means of one or more fingers or lugs 142 (visible in figures 2, 3 and 4), themselves fixed to the first plate 10. The fingers 142 are here fixed to the first plate 10 by several screws.The oblong hole 146 extends here in a longitudinal direction referenced V (see figure 4) inclined relative to the surface of the portion forming the bolt 140. The axis 144 and the oblong hole 146 together form a first connection 149. The locking element 14 is thus fixed to the plate via this axis 144 housed in the oblong hole 146 so that the locking element 14 can pivot and translate as will be described below.

[0073] Each locking element 14-k passes through an opening 122 in the second plate 12, so that the bolt portion 140 and the first plate 10 can grip the second plate 12. The locking elements 14-k also pass through an opening 102 in the first plate 10, reducing the overall size of the assembly formed by the first plate 10 and the locking elements 14-k, this assembly being referred to as the "lock." Alternatively (not shown in the figures), the locking elements 14-k can pass around a catch portion of the second plate (instead of through an opening 122 in the second plate 12), to produce the same clamping effect for securing the plates 10 and 12.

[0074] The locking element 14 is mounted on an actuator 148 by means of a second pivoting and translating linkage 150. The actuator 148 includes a central column, visible in Figures 2 to 4. This second linkage 150 is visible in Figures 2, 3, and 6, and the reference numeral 150 in Figure 4 indicates its location. The second linkage 150 is achieved here by a pin 152 engaging in a hole 154 having a cylindrical portion 1540 and a linear portion 1542. See Figure 6 in particular. The pin 152 comprises, at the coupling with the hole 154, two concentric and symmetrical cylindrical faces 1520 connected to each other by two parallel flat faces 1522. In other words, the pin 152 presents here at the coupling with the hole 154 a section comprising two concentric and symmetrical circular arcs connected by two straight and parallel sides.The two cylinder supports 1520 have the same diameter d as that of the cylindrical portion 1540 of the hole 154, so that the pin 152 can pivot in this cylindrical portion 1542 of the hole 154. The two flat and parallel faces 1522 of the pin 152 together delimit a central portion 1524 of the pin, of constant thickness e equal to the width of the linear portion 1542 of the hole 154, so that the pin 152 can slide in this linear portion 1542 of the hole 154.

[0075] Reference is made to figures 7 and 8, which represent the kinematics of the locking element 14. Figure 7 schematically represents relative positions A to F of the first plate 10, the second plate 12, the actuator 148 and the locking element 14. For the sake of brevity, the frame R = (x, y, z) mentioned above is reused, the z direction corresponding to an "axial" direction of the mechanics and the x direction to a "radial" direction.

[0076] The locking element, due to the shape of the second link 150, is capable of pivoting and translating. More precisely, translation is possible when the locking element is oriented with the linear portion 1542 parallel to the plates 10 and 12, as in positions E and F of Figure 7. Rotation, on the other hand, is possible when the pin 150 is disengaged from the linear portion 1542 and fully housed within the cylindrical portion 1540. Such a rotation is represented by the movement of the locking element 14 between positions A and E.

[0077] In position A, the locking element 14 is in an extreme position, in which it can pass through both ceilings 10 and 12, and in particular through the opening 122 of the second ceiling 12. In position f, the locking element 14 is in a second extreme position in which the locking element comes to grip the second plate 12 and press it against the first plate 10 by acting jointly with the other locking elements.

[0078] In position B, the actuator 148 is moved radially (here in the x direction), parallel to the first plate 10. This movement causes, via the second link 150, the locking element 14 to rotate around the axis 144 of the first link 149 (cf. the movement from position A to B and from position B to C). The axis 144 moves up along the oblong hole 146 until the longitudinal direction V of the oblong hole 144 is parallel to the z direction, as shown in position C. The actuator continues its translational movement along the x direction (position C to D, then D to E) until the bolt-forming porfon 140 of the locking element 14 comes to rest against the strike-forming porfon 120 of the second plate 12 (position E). The armature 148 continues its radial translation, whereby the pin 152 slides in the linear portion 1542 of the hole 154 of the locking element (position E to F).The central section 1524 of the pin engages with the walls of the linear portion 1542. This movement to the extreme position schematically represented in position F prevents any rotation of the locking element 14 around the axis 144 as long as the central portion 1524 is engaged in the linear portion 1542 of the hole 154. This firmly secures the entire assembly formed by the plates 10 and 12, the locking element 14, and the actuator 148. This securing mechanism is all the more advantageous because it is sufficient to hold the actuator 148 stationary in translation in the z direction to prevent any undue opening of the locking elements 14-k. The forces required to hold these locking elements 14-k stationary are thus low, making the assembly particularly robust, especially for withstanding the stresses induced by a launch on a rocket or shuttle.

[0079] When the locking elements 14 are in position D of Figure 7, this corresponds to the aforementioned capture state. In this capture state, the second plate 12 can be moved in rotation and translation relative to the first plate 10, while being held close to the first plate 10 by the locking elements 14-k. Indeed, the bolt-forming portion 140 here blocks both the rotation and translation of the second plate 12 beyond a certain range of motion around a certain position where the plates are pressed against each other. This translational and rotational movement (also called angular and linear movement, respectively) is represented by the linear and angular ranges respectively referenced by D t and D r on figure 7.

[0080] Thanks to this capture state, it is possible to "capture" a load attached to the second plate 12 without requiring very precise positioning of the second plate 12 relative to the first plate 10. In fact, an operator (robotic or human) simply needs to move the second plate 12 until the locking elements 14-k pass through the opening 122. This movement is made possible by the retracted position (in the radial direction x) of the locking elements 14 (as in positions A to C in Figure 7). Handling is thus considerably simplified.

[0081] The locking elements 14-k are actuated via the central column. Their movement can be achieved by any mechanism capable of moving the pins 150 in the (X, Y) plane, i.e., at a constant height relative to the first plate 10. This allows for the purely linear movement of the pin 150 described above.

[0082] For example, a rotating plate type mechanism with a variable connecting rod like the one described in Figure 17.

[0083] Such a mechanism 600 comprises a first plate forming a spiral groove 612 and a second plate 620 comprising as many linear grooves 622 as locking elements 14-k. These linear grooves 622 each extend in a respective radial direction and exhibit the same symmetry as the locking elements (in this case, 90° symmetry). The two plates are parallel. In Figure 17, only the second plate 620 is visible, the first plate being behind the second plate. The second plate 620 is fixed relative to the first plate 10, while the first plate 610 is free to rotate about the Z-axis, and more particularly about the center of the spiral. A lug 624, or finger, per locking element is housed both in a respective linear groove 622 and in the spiral groove 612, while being integral with the pin 150. Here, only one lug 624 is shown.In practice, each linear groove houses a cleat.

[0084] An actuator, for example an electric motor, can then rotate the first plate, causing a simultaneous movement of all the catches 624 in the translational direction defined by their respective linear grooves 622 (i.e., radially), and thus of the pins 150 attached to the catches. This results in a movement of the catches 624 and their respective pins 150 that is linear, purely radial, parallel to the plane of the first plate 10, and synchronous. This last property allows all the locking elements 14-k to be moved synchronously via the pins 150 with a single actuator (for example, an electric motor). This simplifies the actuator design, despite the complex movement of the locking elements. Other connecting rod shapes besides the aforementioned spiral shape can be used to obtain a suitable opening speed curve for the locking elements.

[0085] Alternatively, the actuator can independently move the locking elements 14-k, for example via independently controlled pistons. Other mechanisms are possible for actuating the locking elements appropriately.

[0086] Figure 8 schematically represents the kinematics of the locking element 14 during the passage between positions A and F of Figure 7, and in particular of the portion forming bolt 140, in the frame of reference of the first plate 10, and in particular in the frame of reference of the axis 144 of the first link 149.

[0087] In the frame of reference of the first plate 10, the pin 152 moves along a straight path 1500. This movement induces a composite movement for the locking element, called composite rotation, consisting of a rotation and a translation of the locking element 14. This composite rotation is represented by a scoop-like trajectory 1490 of the end 1400 of the portion forming the bolt 140. This scoop-like trajectory is more pronounced, or wider, along the z-axis than a simple circular rotation 1440 around the axis 144. This increases the rotational travel D accordingly. r and in translation D t, particularly in the capture state. This capture state ideally, but not necessarily, corresponds to the state in which the end 1400 of the portion forming bolt 140 is in its extreme position 1402 with respect to the z-axis. The tolerance of the positioning of the second plate 12 — and therefore of the load — with respect to the first plate 10 — and therefore of the platform — is improved.

[0088] The 14-k locking elements consist of four locking elements, but the invention would function with two 14-k locking elements. It is important that the interface include at least two 14-k locking elements so that the gripping mechanism can operate even if one of the two locking elements fails. With three or more locking elements, the connection can be implemented even if one of the locking elements fails. With four 14-k locking elements, as in the example described here, all the aforementioned properties are achieved, and the mechanism also benefits from 90° rotational symmetry. This symmetry, which is also central, makes the interface 4 agnostic to a 90° rotation of the load, thus facilitating the connection of a load.In an embodiment with only two locking elements, these are arranged with central symmetry, making interface 4 agnostic to a 180° rotation of the load.

[0089] Reference is made to Figure 9 and Figure 10. Figure 9 shows a top view of interface 4 in the capture state. Figure 10 shows positions i, ii, iii, and iv of the interface, each position viewed from the second ceiling 12 (top), from the side (middle), and from the first ceiling 10 (bottom), with position i corresponding to the state shown in Figure 9.

[0090] In position i, the locking elements 14-k are in the captured state. In position iv, the locking elements 14-k are in the locked state, with the first plate 10 and the second plate 12 pressed against each other. Positions ii and iii are intermediate between positions i and iv, kinematically speaking.

[0091] As can be seen in particular in Figure 9, the strike plate portion 120 of the second plate has a guide portion 1200 (here in the form of a raised lip) for the bolt portion 140. More precisely, the guide portion 1200, also called the guide track, has a lateral wall in the form of a spiral section. The respective spirals of the guide portions 1200 and the strike plate portions 120 are concentric.

[0092] Thus, when each locking element 14-k is moved towards the locking position (positions i to iv in Figure 10), the end 1400 of each bolt portion 140 moves closer to its respective guide portion 1200. The end 1400 is indeed moved radially outwards by the movement of its respective locking element 14. This further reduces the translational travel in the radial directions x and y (i.e., perpendicular to the axial direction z). When the end 1400 abuts against the spiral portion while the locking element 14 continues its movement, this induces an axial rotation (z-axis) of the second plate 12 until it aligns with the first plate 10 in the locking position.

[0093] The distance between the end 1400 of each portion forming bolt 140 is zero in the position of solidarisafon (position iv of figure 10), this interaction between the bolt-forming members 140 of the locking elements 14-k (here 14-1 to 14-4) and the guide members 1200 of the strike-forming members 120 of the second ceiling 12 achieve a self-centering of the second ceiling 12 with respect to the first ceiling 10. Thus, the precise positioning of the second ceiling 12 with respect to the first ceiling 10 — and therefore of the load with respect to the platform — is achieved by the lock formed by the first ceiling 10 and the locking elements 14-k. This avoids the need for an external operator (human or robot) to position the load relative to the platform, greatly simplifying handling, particularly in zero gravity or reduced gravity.

[0094] As can be seen in Figures 10 and 11 (but not in Figure 5), the end 1400 of the locking element can be chamfered. This allows for better interaction between the bolt portion 140 and the spiral portion 1200. This chamfer can have a profile complementary to that of the spiral portion 1200. Alternatively (not shown in the figures), this chamfer can have a greater angle than that of the spiral portion, so as to maintain point contact between the end 1400 of the bolt portion 140 and the side wall 1200 of the spiral portion. Also alternatively, as can be seen in Figure 5, the end 1400 can be without a chamfer. Self-centering can be achieved by other means as described below.

[0095] Alternatively (not shown in the figures), the spiral portion can be partial, that is, only on the lateral wall portion of the strike plate portion 120 at the point of maximum radial extension of the bolt portion 140 (or in other words, the portion radially furthest from the opening 120). In such a case, a robotic or human operator can roughly orient the load (and therefore the second plate) during the initial part of the locking process, with fine positioning achieved thanks to the self-centering properties of the partial spiral portion, as described above. This allows the operator to roughly position the load, while removing the burden of precise positioning.

[0096] More generally, the end 1400 of the bolt-forming element 140 thus forms a first relief, and the spiral portion forms a second relief. The first and second reliefs have complementary shapes and thus engage with each other as the locking elements 14-k bring the second plate into a locked state.

[0097] These first and second reliefs can be created alternately by a recessed motif and a raised motif of complementary shapes, each motif being formed on its respective plate. The motifs are then formed so that their coming together under the action of the locking elements induces the aforementioned alignment and centering.

[0098] In the example shown in Figure 9, at least each portion forming the strike plate 120 has a hollow 1210, or depression. This depression 1210 is formed where the portion forming the bolt 140 of a locking element 14 is arranged when the locking element 14 is in the retracted position, i.e., when the interface is in a locked state.

[0099] These depressions 1210 together form a relief that allows for precise centering of the locking elements 14-k, improving the self-centering of the second plate 12 during the final stages of interface engagement. Furthermore, since the bolt-like portion 140 of the locking elements 14-k is partially housed within the depressions 1210, this allows the locking elements 14-k to be held more firmly in the engaged position (see Figure 11, view iv), compared to retention based solely on friction. These depressions are, of course, optional.

[0100] Reference is made to Figures 11 and 12. Figure 11 represents part of a tiling of platform 2 by a plurality of locations 200, similar to those in Figure 1B. Each first plate 10 is suitable for receiving a second plate 12 of the type described previously, to form an interface 4 capable of securing a load.

[0101] The first 10 plates are arranged in a grid. This grid has a square mesh and is also called a "grid". In other words, the first 10 plates are equidistant and arranged in row(s) and column(s).

[0102] Each location 200 is defined by a respective first plate 10. Each location 200 extends around its respective first plate 10 and defines a rectangular area around it. This rectangular area is larger than the footprint of the first plate 10, and in particular encompasses the footprint 202 of the first plate when it is rotated by a certain angle, as shown in Figure 11. This allows a load to be secured in a given location even when all or part of the adjacent locations are occupied, without having to precisely rotate the load mounted on a second plate 12 to insert it between the neighboring loads.

[0103] In the example described here, location 200 is a square with sides of 125 mm, and the first plates 10 have a general square shape with sides of 96 mm, this latter dimension being denoted U hereafter. Other values ​​of U are possible. These dimensions are given for guidance purposes only and may be subject to future standardization, allowing for greater interoperability between different stakeholders.

[0104] Figure 12 shows three load indentations 210, 212 and 214. The first indentation 210 delimits a square of dimensions U x U, the second indentation 212 a rectangle of dimensions U x 2U and the third indentation 214 a square of dimensions 2U x 2U. Other configurations are possible, including an "L" or "T" configuration.

[0105] The wide range of possible footprints for a load attached to multiple interfaces is made possible by the angular and linear movement that the interfaces allow in the capture state. Indeed, without this angular and linear movement, it would be necessary to position the load extremely precisely to secure the second plates 12 to their respective first plates 10. In practice, this positioning would be so delicate as to be almost impossible, forcing the attachment of large loads to a single interface. Large loads would thus be less reliably secured to the platform, as only one interface would hold them.

[0106] Reference is made to Figures 13 to 15, which represent an optional embodiment of the invention. Figure 13 shows a front view of a first plate 10. This first plate 10 is provided with a plurality of openings 300 formed through it. These openings 300 are equidistant circumferentially, with the same invariance under 90° (or 180°) rotation described above. These openings 300 are suitable for housing first electrical connectors 310 (visible in Figure 15) and for receiving second electrical connectors 320 arranged on the second plate 12 (visible in Figure 14). The first electrical connectors 310 and the second electrical connectors 320 are integral parts of the interface and allow for electrical and / or electronic coupling of the load to the platform.

[0107] In the example described here, the first electrical connectors 310 and the second electrical connectors 320 each come in pairs, arranged with central symmetry (or invariance under 180° rotation). Alternatively, the first electrical connectors 310 and the second electrical connectors 320 could be in sets of four, and their respective arrangement invariant under 90° rotation.

[0108] The first electrical connectors 310 are electrically connected to the platform 2, and more generally to the satellite or launch vehicle to which the platform 2 is attached. The first connectors 310 are mounted here on a printed circuit board 330 located behind the first plate 10. The second electrical connectors 320 are electrically connected to the payload, whether it is exposed or housed in the container of the type described above. Alternatively, the second electrical connectors 320 are connected to the container itself, for example, to sensors mounted on the container.

[0109] In the example described here, the first 310 electrical connectors are female type and the second 320 electrical connectors are male type, but the reverse is also possible.

[0110] As can be seen in Figures 14 and 15, the first electrical connectors 310 have an arrangement analogous to that of the second electrical connectors 320. Thus, when the second plate 12 is joined to the first plate 10, the first electrical connectors 310 engage with the second electrical connectors 320, achieving the aforementioned electrical and / or electronic coupling.

[0111] This electrical and / or electronic coupling allows the load—for example, if it's an instrumentation module—to be powered and / or communicated with that load—for example, to control it. Thanks to the 180° rotation invariance (or 90°, not shown here), the electrical and / or electronic connection is made regardless of the orientation of the boards, similar to a USB-C connector. This further simplifies the use of the interface for connecting loads.

[0112] Figure 14 further illustrates a skeleton of the aforementioned container. This skeleton comprises four uprights 400 attached to a first base 410 and a second base 420, each rectangular (here, square). The assembly forms a parallelepiped defining the internal volume of the container. The first base 410 is attached to the second plate 12. Such a skeleton allows for a rigid and lightweight container.

[0113] Reference is made to Figure 16, which represents an optional embodiment of the invention. Here, interface 4 provides thermal coupling between the interior of container 500 and platform 2. More specifically, the container walls 510 on the faces other than that occupied by the second plate 12 (to which container 500 is attached) are thermally insulating, while interface 4 is made of a thermally conductive material. Plates 10 and 12 can, for example, be made of aluminum or steel.

[0114] This particular configuration allows almost all heat exchange between the inside of container 500 and the outside to be directed through interface 4. This is represented by the bold arrow in Figure 16, passing through interface 4, while heat exchange through walls 510, represented by dashed arrows, is comparatively very low.

[0115] Thus, platform 2 is equipped with means to control heat exchange between the contents of container 500 (i.e., the payload housed within it) and the outside. This allows for precise temperature control inside the container, on the satellite or launcher side, preventing overheating or freezing.

[0116] The interface may be equipped with a load release mechanism, not shown in the figures. During load release (i.e., the transition from the locked to the released state), the locking elements are fully opened (or deployed) by a motor. This produces an impact from the end 1400 of the locking elements 14 to the top of the load, i.e., against the 410, thus imparting momentum to the load.

[0117] Alternatively, the interface can include a simpler release mechanism based on a spring (more generally, an elastic element that accumulates potential energy). This spring can, for example, be attached to the second plate 12 and compressed during the interface's assembly. Upon release of the load, the spring releases its potential energy to repel the released load.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. A securing interface (4) for a payload, intended to be placed in orbit, to a launch platform (2), the interface (4) comprising a first plate (10) carried by said platform (2) and a second plate (12) carried by said payload, said plates (10, 12) being intended to be pressed against each other in a securing position, characterized in that said first plate (10) carries at least two locking elements (14) movable between two states: a first state, called the approach state, allowing said plates (10, 12) to be brought close to each other without said locking elements (14) interacting with said second plate (12), in a pre-assembly position, and a second state, called the locking state, in which said plates (10, 12) are in said securing position, a portion forming a bolt (140) of each of said locking elements (12) engaging with a corresponding porfon,forming a strike plate (120), provided for this purpose on the second plate (12), in that said locking elements (14) are placed in an intermediate state, called a capture state, from the pre-assembly position, in which the bolt-forming portion (140) of each of said locking elements (14) engages with the second plate (12) while allowing translational and rotational movements of the second plate (12) relative to the first plate (10) within translational ranges (D, t ) and rotation (D r ) predetermined, and in that said locking elements (14) are actuated to pass from the capture state to the locking state, thus progressively bringing the plates (10, 12) into said locking position in rotation and translation.

2. A locking interface according to claim 1, wherein each locking element (14) comprises at least one first relief (1400) and the second plate (12) comprises a second relief (1200; 1210), the first relief (1400) and the second relief (1200; 1210) having complementary shapes and coming into mutual contact when the locking elements (14) are in the locked state.

3. A joining interface according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second plate (12) has at least one guide track (1200) capable of cooperating with a bolt-forming portion (140) of the locking element (14) to guide the second plate (12) to the joining position.

4. A locking interface according to claim 3, wherein each guide track (1200) comprises a lateral face (1200) forming a spiral portion by bolt-forming portion (140), the spiral portions (1200) being concentric, and wherein when the locking elements (14) are actuated to lock the plates (10, 12), each of the bolt-forming portions (140) is moved radially outwards and against a spiral portion (1200), thus rotating the second plate (12) to the locking position.

5. A fastening interface according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a container (3) intended to hold a load is fixed to the second plate (12), the wall (510) of the container (3) being made of a thermally insulating material and having an opening closed by the second plate (12), and wherein the first plate (10) and the second plate (12) are each made of a thermally conductive material.

6. A joining interface according to any one of the preceding claims comprising an even number of locking elements (14), each plate (10, 12) having central symmetry.

7. A joining interface according to claim 6, comprising a number of locking elements (14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4) that is a multiple of four, the second plate (12) and the first plate (10) each having a symmetry by rotation of 90°.

8. A bonding interface according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the first plate (10) has an even number of first electrical connectors (310) arranged with central symmetry, and wherein the second plate (12) has the same number of complementary second electrical connectors (320) arranged similarly to the first electrical connectors (310), the first plate (10) having a plurality of lights (300) arranged to correspond to the location of the first electrical connectors (310).

9. First plate (10), intended to be carried by a launch platform (2) for placing at least one payload into orbit, said first plate (10) being intended to receive, pressed against it, in a position called the "locking" position, a second plate (12) attached to a payload to be placed into orbit, characterized in that said first plate (10) carries at least two locking elements (14) movable between two states: a first state, called the "approach" state, allowing said plates to be brought close to each other without said locking elements (14) interacting with said second plate (12), in a pre-assembly position, and a second state, called the "locking" state, in which said plates (10, 12) are in said "locking" position, a bolt-forming port (14) of each of said locking elements (14) engaging with a corresponding port, forming gâche (120),provided for this purpose on the second plate (12), in that said locking elements (14) are placed in an intermediate state, called capture, from the pre-assembly position, in which the bolt-forming portion (140) of each of said locking elements (14) engages with the second plate (12) while allowing translational and rotational movements of the second plate (12) relative to the first plate (10) within translational ranges (D, t ) and rotation (D r ) predetermined, and in that said locking elements (14) are actuated to pass from the capture state to the locking state, thus progressively bringing the plates (10, 12) into said locking position in rotation and translation.

10. Space platform (2) having a flat face on which are arranged a plurality of first plates (10) according to the preceding claim.

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