A modular layout method for RCS of a launch vehicle that enables rapid inspection and maintenance.

Abstract

This invention relates to a modular layout method for the RCS (Reusable Launch System) of a launch vehicle, enabling rapid inspection and maintenance. It belongs to the fields of aerospace transportation and reusable space transportation technology. The method defines the structural classification of the RCS, including the RCS engine, RCS tank, and diaphragm valve. The RCS engine is modularly designed as an engine module, and its layout is designed accordingly. A convenient external docking layout is designed between the engine module and the cabin body; a convenient external docking layout is designed between the engine module and the cabin's internal structure; the RCS tank and diaphragm valve are modularly designed as tank modules; a convenient external docking layout is designed between the tank module and the cabin body and internal structure; and skin covers are installed on the outer wall of the cabin at positions corresponding to the engine module and tank module to provide protection. This invention designs a modular RCS layout scheme that allows for convenient disassembly and replacement of major RCS system components in the field, and after engineering implementation, it strongly supports the rapid turnaround and launch of reusable launch vehicles.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the fields of aerospace transportation and reusable space transportation technology, and relates to a modular layout method for the RCS of a launch vehicle that can be quickly inspected and maintained. Background Technology

[0002] In the fields of aerospace transportation and reusable space transportation, various launch vehicles and spacecraft widely use conventional toxic propellants as RCS propellants to meet the requirements for long-term storage and rapid response. For traditional disposable rockets and spacecraft, which are decommissioned after a single launch or flight, there is no need to inspect, maintain, or replace RCS system products that have been filled with or contaminated with toxic propellants. Therefore, RCS system products generally adopt a layout scheme that combines on-demand placement and "fitting in gaps," with less attention paid to testing, maintenance, and replacement after contamination, resulting in poor ease of disassembly and replacement.

[0003] For new reusable launch vehicles or similar spacecraft, rapid full-system testing and maintenance in the field after launch and return is a prerequisite for efficient operation. Furthermore, the safe and convenient post-processing, maintenance, and replacement of RCS system products using toxic propellants is a prerequisite for the safe testing and maintenance of each system. Previously, some reusable launch vehicles / spacecraft using toxic propellants required complex compartmentalization and disassembly to maintain and replace RCS system products, which severely impacted the reusability of the launch vehicle and increased operational risks during the handling of enclosed compartments.

[0004] For a considerable period of time, the conventional toxic propellants of the RCS system cannot be replaced by other types of media. Moreover, the cryogenic non-toxic propellants and cooling devices currently under development also have the problem of limited lifespan and the need for maintenance and replacement during service. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem solved by this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, propose a modular layout method for the RCS of a launch vehicle that can be quickly inspected and maintained, design an RCS modular layout scheme, and enable convenient disassembly and replacement of the main products of the RCS system in the field. After the project is implemented, it will strongly support the realization of rapid turnover and launch of reusable launch vehicles.

[0006] The solution of the present invention is:

[0007] A modular layout method for the RCS of a launch vehicle that enables rapid inspection and maintenance includes:

[0008] Determine the structural classification of RCS, including RCS engine, RCS tank and diaphragm valve;

[0009] The RCS engine is modularly designed as an engine module, and the layout of the engine module is designed.

[0010] Design a convenient external docking layout for the engine module and the cabin;

[0011] Design a convenient external docking layout for the engine module and the internal structure;

[0012] The RCS tank and diaphragm valve are modularly designed as tank modules; a convenient external docking layout for the tank modules and the cabin is designed.

[0013] Design a convenient external docking layout for the tank module and the internal structure;

[0014] Skin covers are installed on the outer wall of the cabin at the locations corresponding to the engine module and the storage tank module to achieve coverage and protection.

[0015] In the aforementioned modular layout method for a launch vehicle RCS that enables rapid inspection and maintenance, the RCS engine and RCS tank are structures that contact the propellant; the propellant includes a fuel and an oxidizer; the diaphragm valve is a disposable valve, designed for maintenance or replacement during turnaround launches.

[0016] In the aforementioned modular layout method for the RCS of a carrier capable of rapid inspection and maintenance, the modular layout of the engine module is as follows:

[0017] Six RCS engines are used as a group to form an engine module; two identical engine modules are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the hull.

[0018] In the aforementioned modular layout method for the carrier RCS that enables rapid inspection and maintenance, the outlet direction of each RCS engine in the engine module is designed according to the attitude control torque requirements of each channel.

[0019] In the aforementioned modular RCS layout method for a launch vehicle capable of rapid inspection and maintenance, the design method for a convenient external docking layout between the engine module and the cabin is as follows:

[0020] Within the engine module, each RCS engine is mounted on the six-engine integrated frame from the outside in; on the hull, mounting brackets and passageways for the six-engine integrated frame are provided;

[0021] The six-engine integrated frame carrying each RCS engine is connected from the outside of the cabin to the mounting bracket via a passage, and the installation is secured by fasteners operated from outside the cabin.

[0022] In the aforementioned modular layout method for the carrier's RCS (Rapidly Detectable and Maintainable System), the convenient external docking layout design method for the engine module and the internal structure is as follows:

[0023] Each RCS engine is connected to a propellant pipeline and a pressurization pipeline; after the pipelines of each RCS engine in each engine module are combined, a pressurization interface a1, a propellant interface b1, and an oxidizer interface c1 are set. Each interface is located on the side of the six-engine integrated frame facing the outside of the cabin.

[0024] Inside the cabin, there are pressurization interface a2, propellant interface b2, and oxidizer interface c2 that connect to the engine module; the six-engine integrated frame has docking openings at the corresponding pipeline interfaces.

[0025] In the aforementioned modular layout method for the carrier RCS that enables rapid inspection and maintenance, after adopting this modular design, the six-engine integrated frame carrying the RCS engines is installed in place, and communication between a1 and a2, b1 and b2, and c1 and c2 can be achieved from outside the cabin.

[0026] In the aforementioned modular RCS layout method for a launch vehicle capable of rapid inspection and maintenance, the design method for a convenient external docking layout between the tank module and the cabin is as follows:

[0027] Inside the tank module, each RCS tank and diaphragm valve is mounted on the tank support frame from the outside in; on the fuselage hull 1, the tank bracket and channel of the tank support frame are set; the tank support frame is connected to the tank bracket from the outside of the hull through the channel, and the installation and fixation are achieved by operating fasteners outside the hull.

[0028] In the aforementioned modular layout method for the RCS of a launch vehicle capable of rapid inspection and maintenance, the design method for a convenient external docking layout between the tank module and the internal structure is as follows:

[0029] Each RCS tank is connected to the propellant pipeline and pressurization pipeline of the tank body; after the pipelines of each RCS tank in the tank module are summarized, a pressurization interface d1, a propellant interface e1, and an oxidizer interface f1 are set; each interface is located on the side of the tank body support facing outwards; on the inside of the tank body, there are pressurization interfaces d2, propellant interfaces e2, and oxidizer interfaces f2 that dock with the tank module; the tank body support has docking openings at the corresponding pipeline interfaces;

[0030] With this modular design, after the entire tank support carrying the RCS tank is installed in place, communication between d1 and d2, e1 and e2, and f1 and f2 can be achieved from outside the tank.

[0031] In the aforementioned modular layout method for the carrier RCS that enables rapid inspection and maintenance, when each structure undergoes system inspection, maintenance, disassembly, or replacement, each module has its skin cover removed from the outside of the cabin, its pipeline interfaces disconnected, and the module is removed as a whole.

[0032] The beneficial effects of this invention compared to the prior art are:

[0033] (1) The RCS of the present invention adopts a modular layout for products that need to be removed for inspection, maintenance and replacement. Inspection, maintenance and disassembly and replacement can be completed by only external operation, which greatly simplifies the work items during turnaround and launch and reduces the complexity of operation and workload.

[0034] (2) The products that need to be replaced after the RCS of the present invention are completely disassembled and installed outside the cabin, eliminating the safety risks to personnel when disassembling scattered products inside the cabin, as well as the safety hazards of accidental injury or collision with other products;

[0035] (3) The highly modular design of the RCS in this invention reduces the distribution range on the carrier, reduces the complexity of system connection, shortens the length of system pipeline, and also improves the convenience of inspection and maintenance of non-modular products. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall layout of the RCS of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the RCS engine grouping and modular layout of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the external connection between the engine module and the fuselage structure of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the external docking of the engine module and the internal piping of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the modular layout of the RCS tank of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the external connection between the storage tank module and the fuselage structure of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the external connection between the tank module and the internal piping of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the convenient external disassembly and assembly of each module of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the embodiments.

[0045] This invention provides a modular layout method for the RCS of a launch vehicle that enables rapid inspection and maintenance. It allows for convenient disassembly and replacement of the main products of the RCS system in the field, and after engineering implementation, it strongly supports the realization of rapid turnaround and launch of reusable launch vehicles.

[0046] A modular layout method for the RCS of a launch vehicle that enables rapid inspection and maintenance includes the following steps:

[0047] The structural classification of the RCS is determined, including the RCS engine 2, the RCS reservoir 9, and the diaphragm valve 4. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the RCS engine 2 and RCS tank 9 are structures that contact the propellant; the propellant includes a fuel and an oxidizer; the diaphragm valve 4 is a disposable valve, designed for maintenance or replacement during turnaround launches, and is part of a modular layout; other gas-liquid lines can be inspected and maintained on-board. The RCS enables attitude control of the launch vehicle.

[0048] The RCS engine 2 is modularly designed as engine module 5, and the layout of engine module 5 is designed.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the RCS engine 2 adopts a modular layout of multiple individual engines, and the modular layout of engine module 5 is as follows:

[0050] Six RCS engines 2 are grouped together to form an engine module 5; two identical engine modules 5 are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the hull 1. In the engine module 5, the outlet direction of each RCS engine 2 is designed according to the attitude control torque requirements of each channel.

[0051] Design a convenient external docking layout for engine module 5 and cabin 1.

[0052] like Figure 3 As shown, the design method for the convenient external docking layout of engine module 5 and cabin 1 is as follows:

[0053] Within the engine module 5, each RCS engine 2 is mounted on the six-engine integrated frame 6 from the outside in; on the hull 1, the mounting brackets 7 and passages for the six-engine integrated frame 6 are provided.

[0054] The six-engine integrated frame 6 carrying each RCS engine 2 is connected from the outside of the cabin 1 to the mounting bracket 7 through a passage, and the installation and fixation are achieved by operating fasteners outside the cabin.

[0055] The design incorporates a convenient external docking layout for engine module 5 with the internal structure.

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, the convenient external docking layout design method for engine module 5 and the internal structure is as follows:

[0057] Each RCS engine 2 is connected to a propellant pipeline and a pressurization pipeline; after the pipelines of each RCS engine 2 in each engine module 5 are combined, a pressurization interface a1, a propellant interface b1, and an oxidizer interface c1 are set. Each interface is located on the side of the six-engine integrated frame 6 facing the outside of the cabin 1.

[0058] Inside the cabin 1, there are pressurization interface a2, propellant interface b2, and oxidizer interface c2 that are connected to the engine module 5; the six-engine integrated frame 6 has docking openings 8 at the corresponding pipeline interface locations.

[0059] With this modular design, the six-engine integrated frame 6, carrying the RCS engine 2, is installed in place, and communication between a1 and a2, b1 and b2, and c1 and c2 can be achieved from outside the cabin.

[0060] like Figure 5 As shown, the RCS tank 9 and diaphragm valve 4 are modularly designed as tank module 11; a convenient external docking layout between tank module 11 and the cabin 1 is designed.

[0061] The design method for the convenient external docking layout of the storage tank module 11 and the cabin 1 is as follows:

[0062] like Figure 6 As shown, within the tank module 11, each RCS tank 9 and diaphragm valve 4 are mounted on the tank integral support 12 from the outside in; on the fuselage hull 1, the tank bracket 13 and channel of the tank integral support 12 are provided; the tank integral support 12 is connected to the tank bracket 13 from the outside of the hull 1 through the channel, and the installation and fixation are achieved by operating fasteners outside the hull.

[0063] The design incorporates a convenient external docking layout between the tank module 11 and the internal structure.

[0064] like Figure 7 As shown, the design method for the convenient external docking layout of the tank module 11 and the internal structure is as follows:

[0065] Each RCS tank 9 is connected to the propellant pipeline and pressurization pipeline of the cabin 1; after the pipelines of each RCS tank 9 in the tank module 11 are summarized, a pressurization interface d1, a propellant interface e1, and an oxidizer interface f1 are set; each interface is located on the side of the tank support 12 facing outward; on the inside of the cabin 1, a pressurization interface d2, a propellant interface e2, and an oxidizer interface f2 are provided to dock with the tank module 11; the tank support 12 is provided with docking openings 14 at the corresponding pipeline interface locations;

[0066] With this modular design, after the overall tank support 12 carrying the RCS tank 9 is installed in place, the connection between d1 and d2, e1 and e2, and f1 and f2 can be achieved from outside the tank.

[0067] A skin cover plate 15 is installed on the outer wall of the cabin 1 at the position corresponding to the engine module 5 and the storage tank module 11 to achieve coverage and protection.

[0068] like Figure 8According to the modular design described above, during system installation, each module can be directly installed onto the fuselage from the outside of fuselage section 5, and the connections for pipelines, etc., can be completed outside the fuselage. After system testing and lubrication, the skin cover 15 of each module is installed. When each structure is subjected to system inspection, maintenance, disassembly, or replacement, the skin cover 15 of each module is removed from the outside of the fuselage 1, the pipeline interfaces are disconnected, and the module is removed as a whole.

[0069] Technical solution of the present invention

[0070] A modular RCS layout scheme for launch vehicles that enables rapid inspection and maintenance includes:

[0071] (1) RCS product classification and determination of modular layout objects;

[0072] (2) Grouping and modular layout of RCS engine;

[0073] (3) Convenient external docking layout for engine modules and airframe structure;

[0074] (4) Convenient external docking layout for engine modules and in-cabin products;

[0075] (5) Overall planning and modular layout of RCS storage tank and disposable valves;

[0076] (6) Convenient external docking layout between the storage tank module and the airframe structure;

[0077] (7) Convenient external docking layout for tank modules and products inside the cabin.

[0078] The RCS of this invention adopts a modular layout for products that need to be removed for inspection, maintenance and replacement. Inspection, maintenance and disassembly and replacement can be completed by external operation only, which greatly simplifies the work items during turnaround and launch and reduces the complexity and workload of operation.

[0079] After RCS is used, all products that need to be replaced can be disassembled and installed outside the cabin, eliminating the safety risks to personnel themselves when disassembling scattered products inside the cabin, as well as the safety hazards of accidental injury or contact with other products.

[0080] The highly modular design of RCS reduces its distribution range on the carrier, lowers the complexity of system connections, shortens system piping length, and also improves the convenience of testing and maintenance of non-modular products.

[0081] Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make possible changes and modifications to the technical solutions of the present invention by utilizing the methods and techniques disclosed above without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the content of the technical solutions of the present invention shall fall within the protection scope of the technical solutions of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular layout method for the RCS of a launch vehicle that enables rapid inspection and maintenance, characterized in that: include: The structural classification of RCS is determined, including RCS engine (2), RCS tank (9) and diaphragm valve (4). The RCS engine (2) is modularly designed as an engine module (5), and the layout of the engine module (5) is designed. The modular layout of the engine module (5) is as follows: Six RCS engines (2) are used as a group to form an engine module (5); two identical engine modules (5) are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the cabin (1). In the engine module (5), the outlet direction of each RCS engine (2) is designed according to the attitude control torque requirements of each channel; Design a convenient external docking layout for the engine module (5) and the cabin (1); The design method for the convenient external docking layout of the engine module (5) and the cabin (1) is as follows: Inside the engine module (5), each RCS engine (2) is mounted on the six-engine integrated frame (6) from the outside to the inside; on the cabin (1), the mounting bracket (7) and passage of the six-engine integrated frame (6) are provided; The six-engine integrated frame (6) carrying each RCS engine (2) is connected from the outside of the cabin (1) to the mounting bracket (7) through the channel, and the installation is fixed by operating fasteners outside the cabin; Design an easy-to-use external docking layout for the engine module (5) and the internal structure; The RCS tank (9) and diaphragm valve (4) are modularly designed as a tank module (11); a convenient external docking layout between the tank module (11) and the cabin (1) is designed. Design a convenient external docking layout between the tank module (11) and the internal structure; A skin cover (15) is installed on the outer wall of the cabin (1) at the position corresponding to the engine module (5) and the storage tank module (11) to achieve coverage and protection.

2. The modular layout method for RCS of a launch vehicle capable of rapid detection and maintenance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The RCS engine (2) and RCS tank (9) are structures that contact the propellant; the propellant includes a fuel and an oxidizer; the diaphragm valve (4) is a disposable valve, which is a structure that is maintained or disassembled and replaced during turnaround launches.

3. The modular layout method for RCS of a launch vehicle capable of rapid detection and maintenance according to claim 2, characterized in that: The convenient external docking layout design method for the engine module (5) and the internal structure is as follows: Each RCS engine (2) is connected to a propellant pipeline and a pressurization pipeline; after summing up the pipelines of each RCS engine (2) in each engine module (5), a pressurization interface a1, a propellant interface b1, and an oxidizer interface c1 are set. Each interface is located on the side of the six-engine frame (6) facing the outside of the cabin (1). Inside the cabin (1), there are pressurization interface a2, propellant interface b2 and oxidizer interface c2 that are connected to the engine module (5); the six-engine frame (6) has docking openings (8) at each corresponding pipeline interface.

4. The modular layout method for RCS of a launch vehicle capable of rapid detection and maintenance according to claim 3, characterized in that: After adopting this modular design, the six-engine frame (6) carrying the RCS engine (2) is installed in place, and the connection between a1 and a2, b1 and b2, and c1 and c2 can be realized from outside the cabin.

5. The modular layout method for RCS of a launch vehicle capable of rapid detection and maintenance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The design method for the convenient external docking layout of the storage tank module (11) and the cabin (1) is as follows: Inside the tank module (11), each RCS tank (9) and diaphragm valve (4) are mounted on the tank support frame (12) from the outside to the inside; on the fuselage (1), the tank hanger (13) and channel of the tank support frame (12) are set; the tank support frame (12) is connected to the tank hanger (13) from the outside of the cabin (1) through the channel, and the installation and fixation are achieved by operating fasteners outside the cabin.

6. The modular layout method for RCS of a launch vehicle capable of rapid detection and maintenance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The design method for the convenient external docking layout of the tank module (11) and the internal structure is as follows: Each RCS tank (9) is connected to the propellant pipeline and pressurization pipeline of the tank body (1); after summarizing the pipelines of each RCS tank (9) in the tank module (11), a pressurization interface d1, a propellant interface e1, and an oxidizer interface f1 are set; each interface is located on the side of the tank support (12) facing the outside of the tank; on the inside of the tank body (1), a pressurization interface d2, a propellant interface e2, and an oxidizer interface f2 are provided to dock with the tank module (11); the tank support (12) is provided with docking openings (14) at each corresponding pipeline interface. After adopting this modular design, the overall support frame (12) of the storage tank carries the RCS storage tank (9) and is installed in place. The connection between d1 and d2, e1 and e2, and f1 and f2 can be realized from outside the tank.

7. The modular layout method for RCS of a launch vehicle capable of rapid detection and maintenance according to claim 1, characterized in that: When each structure is inspected, maintained, disassembled and replaced, each module removes the skin cover (15) from the outside of the cabin (1), disconnects the pipeline interface, and removes the module as a whole.

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