Large-deformation flexible inflation channel for assembling and butting lunar cabin sections

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of lunar cabin section assembly and butt joint, and discloses a large-deformation flexible inflation channel for lunar cabin section assembly and butt joint, which comprises a sealed flexible channel and at least two groups of deformation control air bags, the two ends of the sealed flexible channel are respectively connected with a butt joint frame and a butt joint ring, and the deformation control air bags are arranged on the outer side of the sealed flexible channel; the deformation control air bag controls the overall pose and rigidity of the sealed flexible channel through inflation and deflation so as to compensate pose deviation between the butt joint cabin sections and balance internal loads generated by butt joint, the large-deformation flexible inflation channel is assembled on the lunar surface cabin sections in a butt joint mode, and the large-deformation flexible inflation channel can be folded and unfolded on the lunar surface in a lossless, efficient and repeated mode. Multiple properties such as wear resistance and puncture resistance and good air tightness are achieved, and multiple times of connection, separation and reconstruction of the cabin section can be achieved; the air bag can be controlled through deformation to balance the internal pressure load, prevent the cabin section from overturning and the like according to the posture change and the load; and the method also has high reliability and long-term service capability, and adapts to pose changes caused by lunar soil settlement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of lunar module assembly and docking technology, and in particular to a large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking. Background Technology

[0002] As human exploration of the moon deepens, in order to conduct more substantial, sustainable, and multi-layered comprehensive scientific research activities, it is inevitable to establish a lunar station and carry out long-term, continuous, and systematic lunar surface exploration. Currently, relevant lunar station construction plans have been proposed and are undergoing related feasibility studies. However, the existing launch volume and mass envelopes are insufficient to support the direct launch of the entire lunar research station system to the lunar surface. Therefore, it is necessary to assemble and dock multiple modules on the lunar surface, completing the overall station construction mission in stages.

[0003] The aforementioned and existing related technologies often suffer from the following drawbacks: During the assembly and docking of different modules on the lunar surface, the attitude deviations between modules are uncertain and may continue to change over time due to factors such as initial docking conditions, lunar constraints on the relative motion of the modules, lunar surface unevenness, and uneven lunar regolith subsidence characteristics. This attitude deviation can firstly lead to the docking mechanism assembly bearing large tolerances and high loads for extended periods, reducing the reliability and service life of the docking mechanism. Secondly, due to the characteristics of the lunar surface environment, the internal pressure caused by this attitude deviation is more likely to trigger major accidents such as module overturning or tipping. Furthermore, considering the launch mass and volume envelope, the modules and the docking mechanism connection channels should be lightweight and capable of repeated unfolding.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to propose a highly efficient, reliable, adaptable, foldable, expandable, and long-life flexible inflatable channel for the assembly and docking of lunar modules, so as to meet the connection and separation requirements between various pressurized modules and vehicles on the lunar surface. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is that the existing technology has the disadvantage that the docking mechanism cannot complete the docking assembly due to the positional deviation, or causes the module to overturn. To this end, we propose a large deformation flexible air-filled channel for lunar module assembly and docking.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution: a large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking, comprising:

[0007] A sealed flexible channel, with a docking frame and a docking ring connected to each end of the sealed flexible channel, is used to connect with the cabin;

[0008] And at least two sets of deformation control airbags, the deformation control airbags being disposed on the outside of the sealed flexible channel;

[0009] The deformation control airbag controls the overall position and stiffness of the sealed flexible channel by inflating and deflating it, in order to compensate for positional deviations between docking sections and balance the internal loads generated during docking.

[0010] Furthermore, the deformation control airbags are in three groups and are evenly distributed around the outside of the sealed flexible channel at 120° intervals to achieve six degrees of freedom motion control of the channel.

[0011] Furthermore, the sealed flexible channel is a multi-layer composite structure, which includes, from the inside out: an airtight layer, a thermal protection layer, an inner reinforcement layer, an outer reinforcement layer, and a radiation / debris protection layer.

[0012] Furthermore, the airtight layer is a thin film structure used to ensure the airtightness of the channel interior;

[0013] The thermal protection layer is a thin film structure used to control the temperature inside the channel;

[0014] The inner and outer reinforcing layers are integrally woven from Vectran fibers, serving as the main load-bearing structure of the channel.

[0015] The radiation / debris protection layer is the outermost layer of the channel and is capable of protecting against lunar surface radiation, micro-debris, and lunar dust.

[0016] Furthermore, the deformation control airbag undergoes axial contraction when inflated to a high-pressure state, resulting in a shorter length and increased stiffness; while under low-pressure conditions, it remains in an extended state with lower stiffness.

[0017] Furthermore, by differentially inflating and deflating the three sets of deformation control airbags, the sealed flexible channel is driven to bend or shift towards the high-pressure airbag side, thereby adjusting the overall configuration of the channel.

[0018] Furthermore, the deformation control airbag is configured as an inflatable cylindrical structure and divided into multiple segments to reduce the difficulty of deformation control.

[0019] Furthermore, the docking ring adopts a heterogeneous isomorphic peripheral configuration, with multiple sets of guide lobes evenly distributed on the circumference of the docking ring for capturing docking.

[0020] The technical effects and advantages of this invention are as follows:

[0021] In this invention, the large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking can be repeatedly folded and unfolded on the lunar surface without damage, efficiently, and repeatedly. This flexible inflatable channel is wear-resistant, puncture-resistant, tear-resistant, impact-resistant, space radiation-resistant, resistant to extreme high and low temperature environments, and has good airtightness. It can realize multiple connections, separations, and reconstructions between various pressurized modules on the lunar surface, meeting the requirements of lunar assembly and docking missions.

[0022] In this invention, the large deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly can control the inflation deformation and stiffness of the airbags by deformation according to the relative posture changes between modules and the load on the docking mechanism during the lunar assembly and docking process. This balances the internal pressure load of the modules introduced by the lunar surface undulations during the pressurization process, and prevents the modules from overturning or tipping over under the action of internal pressure, as well as the docking mechanism from overload.

[0023] The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking provided in this invention has high reliability and long-term service capability. It can adapt to the continuous and random changes in the position and attitude between modules caused by uneven lunar soil subsidence over a long period during long-term lunar station construction and scientific research. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The disclosure of this invention is illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same parts:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the lunar surface assembly and docking mechanism and the flexible inflatable channel in the retracted state of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the lunar surface assembly and docking mechanism and the flexible inflatable channel in the extended state of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the lateral offset state of the lunar surface assembly and docking mechanism and the flexible air-filled channel of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the lunar surface assembly and docking mechanism and the rolling state of the flexible inflatable channel of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the large deformation flexible air-filled channel assembly for lunar surface assembly and docking according to the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the lunar surface assembly docking sealing and inflation channel of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the layered composite material of the docking channel skin of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the rigid docking ring of the lunar surface assembly and docking mechanism of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the low-pressure state of the deformation control airbag of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the high-pressure state of the deformation control airbag of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of active compliant deformation of the docking channel under the action of the deformation control airbag of the present invention.

[0036] Legend: 1. Static platform of docking mechanism; 2. Actuator of docking mechanism; 3. Dock channel; 4. Moving platform of docking mechanism; 5. Radiation / debris protection layer; 6. Outer reinforcement layer; 7. Inner reinforcement layer; 8. Thermal protection layer; 9. Airtight layer; 10. Deformation control airbag under low pressure; 11. Deformation flexible channel; 12. Deformation control airbag under high pressure; 13. Dock frame; 14. Deformation control airbag; 15. Dock ring; 16. Sealed flexible channel. Detailed Implementation

[0037] It is readily understood that, based on the technical solution of this invention, those skilled in the art can propose various interchangeable structural methods and implementations without altering the essential spirit of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed embodiments and accompanying drawings are merely illustrative examples of the technical solution of this invention and should not be considered as the entirety of the invention or as limitations or restrictions on the technical solution of this invention.

[0038] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 During the lunar assembly and docking phase, due to the uncertainty of the lunar surface topography, the soft nature of the lunar regolith, and the potential for regolith subsidence caused by long-term operations at the lunar base, there are significant positional deviations between different lunar modules. These deviations are characterized by long-term, continuous, and random variations. The deformation of the lunar assembly and docking mechanism and channels includes, but is not limited to, contraction, extension, lateral displacement, roll, and torsion. During the capture phase, the lunar assembly and docking can utilize the same scheme as the manned spacecraft docking mechanism. The static platform 1 of the docking mechanism serves as the docking frame, and the moving platform 4, i.e., the docking ring, is driven by the docking mechanism actuator 2 to complete the capture. Due to the constraints of freedom on the lunar surface and the influence of the gravitational field, the docking mechanism cannot adopt the scheme of using the actuator 2 to drive the module for attitude correction during the space docking process. The large and uncertain deformation of the docking mechanism will subject it to extremely high internal pressure load, which will pose a risk of damage to the docking mechanism and may cause the module to overturn or roll over. Therefore, the docking channel 3 is designed as a flexible inflatable channel and deforms to balance the load during the docking process according to the load state. The flexible inflatable channel is composed of multi-layer skin composite material, which undertakes the functions of ensuring airtightness, folding and large flexible deformation in the channel connection state, while ensuring that astronauts can walk upright during the transfer between modules.

[0039] See Figure 5This invention provides a technical solution: a large deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking, consisting of a sealed flexible channel 16 and deformation control airbags 14. The deformation control airbags 14 are located on the outside of the sealed flexible channel 16. A docking frame 13 and a docking ring 15 are installed at both ends of the sealed flexible channel 16. The docking frame 13 and the docking ring 15 adopt a rigid structure and are installed at the end of the sealed flexible channel 16 for connection with the module. Three sets of deformation control airbags 14 are uniformly assembled around the sealed flexible channel 16 at a 120° angle. This system has six degrees of freedom of movement in any position during lunar assembly and docking, while balancing the internal pressure load of lunar assembly and docking.

[0040] In the deployed state, the internal pressure of the deformation control airbag 14 is low, and the sealing flexible channel 16 is in the initial elongated state.

[0041] In the rigid contraction state, the internal pressure of the deformation control airbag 14 increases, and the sealing flexible channel 16 completes the deformation as the deformation control airbag 14 contracts.

[0042] In the deformation adjustment state, the deformation control airbag 14 is inflated and deflated, and the sealed inflation channel 16 bears the internal pressure load of the lunar module caused by the attitude deviation of the assembly and docking of the lunar module through deformation adjustment.

[0043] During the capture phase, the lunar surface assembly docking mechanism drives the sealed inflation channel 16 to complete the soft connection. During the pressurization and inflation phase of the modules and the sealed inflation channel 16, the deformation control airbag 14 drives the sealed inflation channel 16 to deform with the change of internal pressure, balancing the docking mechanism and the load between modules.

[0044] See Figure 6 , Figure 7 The sealed flexible channel 16 has a layered structure with a diameter of more than 1.5m, covering the entire lunar surface assembly and docking mechanism. The sealed flexible channel 16 consists of a radiation / debris protection layer 5, an outer reinforcement layer 6, an inner reinforcement layer 7, a thermal protection layer 8, and an airtight layer 9.

[0045] Without affecting its ability to be repeatedly docked, separated, folded, and sealed, a layered configuration is adopted between different functional layers to reduce production costs and reduce the coupling effect between different functional layers. Ultrasonic welding technology is used to connect different functional layers.

[0046] The radiation / debris protection layer 5 is the outermost layer of the sealed flexible channel 16. It has the ability to resist puncture, tearing, abrasion and impact. At the same time, it can prevent lunar radiation, debris and dust from causing damage to the interior of the module. It can also prevent lunar dust from affecting the sealing effect of the lunar assembly docking mechanism.

[0047] The outer reinforcing layer 6 and the inner reinforcing layer 7 are both woven from Vectran fibers. The number of reinforcing layers can be varied during the specific design stage according to different load requirements. This part is the main force-bearing component of the sealed flexible channel 16. It has excellent mechanical properties and folding performance. It can be quickly stiffened after inflation and is more prone to deformation under low stiffness.

[0048] Thermal protection layer 8 serves as the temperature control layer for the passage. It is a thin film structure and is designed to maintain a suitable living environment temperature for astronauts in the extreme temperature field of the lunar surface.

[0049] The airtight layer 9 is the innermost layer of the sealed passage. It adopts a thin film structure. This layer is puncture-proof, fireproof, and resistant to high and low temperature environments. It ensures that the gas inside the cabin does not leak out after the passage is filled with gas. It can ensure the airtightness of the passage under pressure conditions of more than one atmosphere and can be in direct contact with astronauts and space equipment.

[0050] See Figure 8 The docking ring 15 adopts a heterogeneous isomorphic peripheral configuration, with guide lobes evenly distributed on the circumference of the docking ring 15 at 120° intervals to complete the capture and docking function.

[0051] The docking ring 15 is fixedly connected to the end of the sealed inflation channel 16. The guide flap is arranged around the docking ring. The movement of the docking ring 15 is achieved by the lunar surface assembly docking mechanism drive system. After the docking ring 15 is connected, the internal pressure caused by the attitude deviation or attitude change between the modules is borne by the sealed inflation channel 16 through deformation.

[0052] See Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 The deformation control airbag 14 has a simple deformation mechanism, making it an ideal driving mechanism for controlling the deformation of the flexible inflatable channel. Under low pressure, the deformation control airbag 14 has a length of L0 and low stiffness; to reduce the difficulty of deformation control, it is divided into multiple ends. Under high pressure, the deformation control airbag 14 inflates and contracts, with its length L1 being less than the low-pressure length L0. The contracted deformation control airbag 14 drives the sealed flexible channel 16 to move towards the high-pressure deformation control airbag 14 side, adjusting the channel's orientation and configuration.

[0053] Three sets of deformation control airbags 14 complete the large-range position and stiffness control of the sealed flexible channel 16. Under the control of the deformation control airbags 14, the length and position of the entire channel change with the air pressure to adapt to the position deviation caused by the complex terrain of the lunar surface and the potential lunar subsidence.

[0054] The three sets of deformation control airbags 14 are divided into multiple segments using an inflatable cylindrical structure. When inflated, the composite material properties of the airbag cause it to shrink axially, shortening its length compared to the initial length L0 and increasing its stiffness. Under lower air pressure, the airbag is in an extended state. At this time, the stiffness of the flexible inflation channel is relatively small. Different air pressures cause the three sets of deformation control airbags 14 to deform to different degrees. The shrinking deformation control airbags 14 will drive the flexible sealing channel to turn to one side.

[0055] Furthermore, to better demonstrate the principle of active compliant deformation of the docking channel under the action of deformation control airbags, Figure 11 For example, after the deformable flexible channel 11 (that is, the deformed sealed flexible channel 16) deforms, the multiple deformation control airbags 14 will evolve into the state of low-pressure deformation control airbag 10 and high-pressure deformation control airbag 12.

[0056] The technical scope of this invention is not limited to the content described above. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to the above embodiments without departing from the technical concept of this invention, and all such modifications and variations should fall within the protection scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for assembling and docking lunar module segments, characterized in that, include: A sealed flexible channel, with a docking frame and a docking ring connected to each end of the sealed flexible channel, is used to connect with the cabin; And at least two sets of deformation control airbags, the deformation control airbags being disposed on the outside of the sealed flexible channel; The deformation control airbag controls the overall position and stiffness of the sealed flexible channel by inflating and deflating it, in order to compensate for positional deviations between docking sections and balance the internal loads generated during docking.

2. The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking according to claim 1, characterized in that: The deformation control airbags are in three groups and are evenly distributed around the outside of the sealed flexible channel at 120° intervals to achieve six degrees of freedom motion control of the channel.

3. The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sealed flexible channel is a multi-layer composite structure, which includes, from the inside out: an airtight layer, a thermal protection layer, an inner reinforcement layer, an outer reinforcement layer, and a radiation / debris protection layer.

4. The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking according to claim 3, characterized in that: The airtight layer is a thin film structure used to ensure the airtightness of the channel interior; The thermal protection layer is a thin film structure used to control the temperature inside the channel; The inner and outer reinforcing layers are integrally woven from Vectran fibers, serving as the main load-bearing structure of the channel. The radiation / debris protection layer is the outermost layer of the channel and is capable of protecting against lunar surface radiation, micro-debris, and lunar dust.

5. The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking according to claim 2, characterized in that: The deformation control airbag undergoes axial contraction when inflated to a high-pressure state, resulting in a shorter length and increased stiffness; under low-pressure conditions, it remains in an extended state with lower stiffness.

6. The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking according to claim 5, characterized in that: By differentially inflating and deflating the three sets of deformation control airbags, the sealed flexible channel is driven to bend or shift towards the high-pressure airbag side, thereby adjusting the overall configuration of the channel.

7. The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking according to claim 6, characterized in that: The deformation control airbag is configured as an inflatable cylindrical structure and is divided into multiple segments to reduce the difficulty of deformation control.

8. The large-deformation flexible inflatable channel for lunar module assembly and docking according to claim 1, characterized in that: The docking ring adopts a heterogeneous isomorphic peripheral configuration, with multiple sets of guide lobes evenly distributed on the circumference of the docking ring for capturing docking.

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