Folding system for a deployable kit for capturing space debris

Abstract

Folding system (10) of a deployable kit (100) for capturing space debris, the kit (100) comprising an inflatable structure (1) and a net (2) supported by the inflatable structure (1), the system (10) comprising: - a first folding mechanism (4) of the inflatable structure (1) adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1); - a second folding mechanism (5) of the net (2) comprising: - articulated arms (50) adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1);- a rotating, movable mast (52) adapted to be positioned at the center of the net (2) perpendicular to a plane (P) defined by the net (2) when the net (2) and the inflatable structure (1) are unfolded, the mast (52) being adapted to be connected to the net (2), - arms (50) being adapted to be connected to the net (2) and to wrap around the mast (52) when the latter is rotated, - an actuation means (9) for the first mechanism (4) simultaneously with a rotation of the mast (52), so as to allow the inflatable structure (1) to fold synchronously with the folding of the net (2). Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 2.;

Description

Title of the invention: Folding system of a deployable kit for capturing space debris FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of deorbiting space debris, more precisely to a folding system of a deployable kit for capturing space debris. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] The INSIDeR (Innovative Net & Space Inflatable structure for active Débris Removal) system aims to safely deorbit space debris of various sizes. This system comprises a high-strength flexible net serving as a capture system capable of capturing large objects and adapting to different debris morphologies and tumbling speeds, and an inflatable structure supporting the net and serving as a deployment system ensuring debris movement control and damping. To be able to transport this system into space, more precisely into low Earth orbit, it is necessary to be able to package it in such a way as to limit its size while ensuring subsequent controlled deployment. Statement of the invention

[0003] An object of the invention is to enable the folding of a deployable kit for capturing space debris, the kit comprising an inflatable structure and a net connected to the inflatable structure.

[0004] An aim of the invention is to allow the folding of such a kit which makes it possible to limit the size of the folded kit and to properly control the deployment of the kit.

[0005] Another object of the invention is to provide a folding system which allows the folding of a kit regardless of the size of the kit.

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a system for folding a deployable kit for capturing space debris, the kit comprising an inflatable structure and a net supported by the inflatable structure, the system comprising:

[0007] - a first folding mechanism of the inflatable structure adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure;

[0008] - a second mechanism for folding the net comprising:

[0009] - articulated arms adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure;

[0010] - a rotating movable mast adapted to be arranged in the center of the net so as to perpendicular to a plane defined by the net when the net and the inflatable structure are unfolded, the mast being adapted to be connected to the net,

[0011] the arms being adapted to be connected to the net and to wrap around the mast when the latter rotates,

[0012] - a means for actuating the first mechanism simultaneously with a setting in rotation of the mast, so as to allow folding of the inflatable structure synchronous with the folding of the net.

[0013] According to advantageous and non-limiting characteristics, taken alone or in any combination: - - the first mechanism, includes:

[0014] - a first cable comprising a first end, a second end, - pillars, each pillar comprising a first end adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure and a second end having a hole through which the first cable passes, each pillar being adapted to extend from its first end perpendicular to the plane defined by the net when the net and the inflatable structure are unfolded, - anchor points, each anchor point being adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure between two pillars and having an opening crossed by the first cable, the first cable thus alternately crossing pillar holes and anchor point openings, the anchor point openings being further from the net than the pillar holes when the net and the inflatable structure are unfolded, - a first pulley to which the first end and the second end of the first cable are connected, the first pulley being adapted to allow the winding of the first cable so that the winding of the first cable via both its first end and its second end causes each pillar to move in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the net when the net and the inflatable structure are unfolded, in a direction from the second end towards the first end of said pillar, so that the winding of the first cable causes consecutive pillars to move closer together and thus causes the inflatable structure to fold,

[0015] - in the second net folding mechanism:

[0016] - the mast comprises a first end adapted to be connected to the center of the net and a second end, the mast extending from its first end to its second end perpendicular to the plane defined by the net when the net and the inflatable structure are unfolded, - the arms comprise a plurality of main arms and secondary arms, each main arm comprising an articulation with at least one secondary arm, the main arms each comprising a first end connected to the first end of the mast and a second end adapted to be connected to the structure inflatable, the secondary arms each comprising a first end connected to a main arm and a second end adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure, the plurality of arms forming a pattern for folding the net, each arm defining an apex edge of the pattern,

[0017] - the second mechanism comprises:

[0018] - a mast moving device adapted to drive the mast in rotation of so as to cause the net to fold according to the pattern; - the pattern formed by the arms corresponds to a flasher-type origami folding pattern; - the pillars are located equidistant from each other along the inflatable structure when the inflatable structure is unfolded; - the second end of each arm is adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure at an anchor point; - the second mechanism includes:

[0019] - a second cable comprising a first end connected to the mast and a second end, - a second pulley to which the second end of the second cable is connected, the second pulley being adapted to allow the winding of the second cable, and wherein the mast moving device comprises a pinion arranged at the second end of the mast and a rack, the pinion being arranged to roll on the rack when winding the second cable onto the second pulley; - the diameter of the first pulley and the diameter of the second pulley are adapted to allow folding of the inflatable structure and folding of the net in a synchronous manner; - the system includes a storage box suitable for accommodating the kit when folded; - wherein the rack comprises a first end and a second end and extends parallel to the plane defined by the net when the net and the inflatable structure are unfolded from its first end arranged opposite the center of the net to its second end, the second mechanism being adapted to, when the second cable is wound around the second pulley, allow the translation of the mast in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the rack, from the first end of the rack to the second end of the rack and wherein the storage box is arranged opposite the second end of the rack so that the kit is found in the storage box storage after the mast has been moved.

[0020] According to a second aspect, there is provided an assembly comprising the system presented above and a kit comprising an inflatable structure and a net supported by the inflatable structure, in which the first mechanism is connected to the inflatable structure and the second mechanism is connected to the net.

[0021] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of folding a deployable kit for capturing space debris from a system presented previously, the kit comprising an inflatable structure and a net supported by the inflatable structure, the method comprising the steps of:

[0022] a) arrangement of the system so as to connect the first mechanism to the inflatable structure and the second mechanism to the inflatable structure and to the net,

[0023] b) folding the inflatable structure and folding the net synchronously.

[0024] According to advantageous and non-limiting characteristics, taken alone or in any combination: - the folding of the inflatable structure is a zig-zag folding; - the folding of the net is a flasher type origami folding; - the inflatable structure is in a deflated state; - the method comprises a step c) of placing the folded kit in the box of storage; - step b) includes the translation of the mast towards the storage box; - - step a) includes arranging the system so as to connect the pillars, anchor points and arms to the inflatable structure and to connect the arms and mast to the net, - step b) includes rotating the first pulley and the second pulley. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0025] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the following description of a preferred embodiment. This description will be given with reference to the appended figures, including:

[0026] - [Fig.l] represents a deployable kit;

[0027] - [Fig.2] illustrates a folding system of the kit and the kit;

[0028] - [Fig.3] illustrates an enlarged view of the folding system and the kit;

[0029] - [Fig.4] illustrates a top view of part of the folding system and the kit;

[0030] - [Fig.5] illustrates another enlarged view of the folding system and the kit;

[0031] - [Fig.6] illustrates an enlarged view of the folding system, in particular the pulleys;

[0032] - [Fig.7] illustrates inflatable structures at different stages of folding;

[0033] - [Fig.8] illustrates threads at different stages of folding;

[0034] - [Fig.9] represents the steps of a method of folding the kit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION System

[0035] With reference to [Fig.2], a system 10 is proposed for folding a deployable kit 100 for capturing space debris.

[0036] As illustrated in [Fig.l], the kit 100 comprises an inflatable structure 1 and a net 2 supported by the inflatable structure 1. More specifically, the net 2 is supported at the periphery by the inflatable structure 1. The deployable kit 100 is adapted to be deployed in space in order to capture space debris such as out-of-service satellites.

[0037] The inflatable structure 1 is intended to be inflated when in use in space. The inflatable structure 1 advantageously takes the form of a long tube of circular section having, as illustrated in [Fig.l], a first straight section, a circular section and a second straight section when it is unfolded. The net 2 has a circular or ovoid shape when it is unfolded. When the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 are unfolded, the net 2 advantageously extends along a plane P as illustrated in Figures 2 and 4.

[0038] The inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 are thus designed to be sent into space. They are therefore made of materials suitable for withstanding the temperature and pressure constraints of space.

[0039] The system 10 comprises a first mechanism for folding the inflatable structure 1 and a second mechanism 5 for folding the net 2. The system 10, and therefore the first mechanism 4 and the second mechanism 5, are adapted to allow folding of the inflatable structure 1 synchronous with the folding of the net 2. In other words, the mechanisms 4 and 5 are particularly adapted so that, during a folding process of the kit 100, the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 fold so that the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 are both folded at the end of the folding process. The mechanisms 4 and 5 are advantageously adapted to fold the inflatable structure 1 in a particular way and the net 2 in another particular way in order to obtain a folded kit 100 which takes up as little space as possible.Furthermore, the mechanisms 4 and 5 are advantageously adapted to fold the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 so that, when the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 are unfolded in space, the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 unfold quickly and correctly, i.e., the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 unfold completely.

[0040] Advantageously, the system 10 comprises a storage box 6 adapted to accommodate the kit 100 when it is folded. Consequently, the mechanisms 4 and 5 are advantageously adapted to allow the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 to be folded so that the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 can be stored in the storage box. storage 6.

[0041] The first mechanism 4 which allows the inflatable structure 1 to be folded is adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 1. By connected, it is understood that the first mechanism 4 is adapted to be mechanically connected to the inflatable structure 1.

[0042] Advantageously, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the first mechanism 4 comprises a chassis 48. The chassis 48 has the shape of the inflatable structure 1. In other words, the chassis 48 has a circular section adapted to be connected in a complementary manner to the circular section of the inflatable structure 1 when it is unfolded. The chassis 48 also advantageously has two straight sections adapted to be connected in a complementary manner to the straight sections of the inflatable structure 1 when it is unfolded. The chassis 48 advantageously comprises a plurality of articulated sections, each section being a straight or curved elongated piece. The chassis 48 may be metallic. Advantageously, the chassis 48 is made of a lightweight material, in particular to facilitate the transport of the chassis 48. For example, the chassis 48 may be made of a composite material having mechanical characteristics similar to those of a metal.

[0043] The first mechanism 4 advantageously comprises attachment means to allow the connection between the chassis 48, and therefore the first mechanism 4, and the inflatable structure 1. In particular, the first mechanism 4 may comprise, as illustrated in [Fig.2], collars 481 connected to the chassis 48 which are adapted to surround the inflatable structure 1, more precisely to each surround a section of the tube forming the inflatable structure 1. The inflatable structure 1 may be in the inflated or deflated state during a step of connecting the first mechanism 4 to the inflatable structure 1. Note that, during folding, the inflatable structure 1 will on the other hand be in a deflated state or a partially deflated state, the deflation taking place as the folding progresses. The collars 481 are adapted to allow the connection between the chassis 48 and the inflatable structure 1. Advantageously, these collars 481 can be deployed and be actuated pneumatically or electrically.

[0044] The first mechanism 4 comprises a first cable 40. The first cable 40 comprises a first end 401, a second end 402, as illustrated in figures 2 and 6.

[0045] The first mechanism 4 further comprises pillars 42. The pillars 42 take the form of elongated pieces. The pillars 42 may be metallic or preferably made of a composite material having mechanical characteristics similar to those of a metal so as to obtain a lighter system 10. More preferably, the pillars 42 are made of a material identical to that of the chassis 48. Each pillar 42 comprises a first end 421 and a second end 422. The first end 421 of each pillar 42 is adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 1. By connected, it is meant here that each pillar 42 is adapted to be mechanically connected to the inflatable structure 1 directly or indirectly. By indirect, it is meant that the pillars are adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 1 via one or more other elements. In the embodiment illustrated in figures 2 and 3, the first end 421 of each pillar 42 is adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 1 via the frame 48 and the collars 481. Advantageously, the pillars 42 are integral with the frame 48, or even form part of the frame 48.When the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 are unfolded and the first mechanism 4 is connected to the inflatable structure 1, each pillar 42 is adapted to extend from its first end 421 perpendicular to the plane P which is defined by the net 2 when the net 2 and the inflatable structure 1 are unfolded as can be seen in figures 2 and 3.

[0046] The pillars 42 are advantageously located equidistant from each other along the inflatable structure 1 when the inflatable structure 1 is unfolded. Advantageously, the number of pillars 42 depends on the size of the inflatable structure 1. Consequently, the first mechanism 4, and therefore the system 10, are easily adaptable to different sizes of inflatable structures 1 and therefore to kits 100 of different sizes. Indeed, the frame 48 and the number of pillars 42 can easily be designed according to the size of the inflatable structure 1.

[0047] The second end 422 of each pillar 42 advantageously has a hole 4221 through which the first cable 40 passes. Preferably, the hole 4221 is adapted to allow a frictionless connection between the hole 4221 and the cable 40. By frictionless, it is understood that the friction between the hole 4221 and the cable 40 is minimized, in particular during a translation of the cable 40 in the hole 4221. For this purpose, the hole 4221 may have a cylindrical part passing through the hole 4221 and being mounted so as to be free to pivot about its axis. The cable 40 passes through the hole 4221 while resting on the cylindrical part which is adapted to be driven in rotation when the cable 40 translates.

[0048] The first mechanism 4 advantageously comprises anchoring points 44. Each anchoring point 44 is adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 1 between two consecutive pillars 42. By consecutive, we mean two consecutive pillars 42 along the chassis 48. Advantageously, each anchoring point 44 is arranged equidistant from the two consecutive pillars 42 between which it is located. Each anchoring point 44 advantageously has an opening 441 crossed by the first cable 40. Advantageously, the anchoring points 44 are part of the chassis 48.

[0049] It is therefore understood that the first cable 40 alternately passes through holes 4221 of pillars 42 and openings 441 of anchor points 44. The openings 441 of anchor points 44 are further from the net 2 than the holes 4221 of pillars 42 when the net 2 and the inflatable structure 1 are unfolded. More precisely, the openings 441 are closer to the inflatable structure 1 than are the holes 4221.

[0050] As can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the cable 40 thus forms a zigzag with peaks at the holes 4221 of the pillars 42 and hollows at the openings 441 of anchor points 44.

[0051] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 6, the first mechanism 4 preferably comprises a first pulley 46 to which the first end 401 and the second end 402 of the first cable 40 are connected. The first pulley 46 is adapted to allow the winding of the first cable 40 so that the winding of the first cable 40 via both its first end 401 and its second end 402 causes a displacement of each pillar 42 in a direction DI perpendicular to the plane P defined by the net 2 when the net 2 and the inflatable structure 1 are unfolded in a direction from the second end 422 towards the first end 421 of said pillar 42. The direction DI is shown diagrammatically in [Fig. 3]. The winding is further adapted to cause a rapprochement of consecutive pillars 42 as shown diagrammatically in [Fig. 3]. The winding of the cable 40 is thus adapted to cause the folding of the inflatable structure 1.

[0052] Advantageously, the first mechanism 4 is adapted to allow the inflatable structure 1 to be folded in a zig-zag pattern illustrated in [Fig. 7]. [Fig. 7] illustrates an inflatable structure 1 at different stages of folding. The inflatable structure 1a is a completely unfolded inflatable structure 1. The inflatable structure 1b is an inflatable structure 1 at the start of folding. The inflatable structure 1c is at a more advanced stage of folding than the inflatable structure 1b. The inflatable structure 1d is at a more advanced stage of folding than the inflatable structure 1c. The inflatable structure 1c is a completely folded inflatable structure 1. The zig-zag folding makes it possible to obtain a folded inflatable structure 1 which takes up little space in terms of volume. It is thus easier to transport it into space.

[0053] The second mechanism 5, which is adapted for folding the net 2, comprises a mast 52 adapted to be arranged at the center C of the net 2 perpendicular to the plane P defined by the net 2 when the net 2 and the inflatable structure 1 are unfolded. The mast 52 is adapted to be connected to the net 2. More precisely, the mast 52 comprises a first end 521 adapted to be connected to the center C of the net 2 and a second end 522, as illustrated in [Fig.5]. The mast 52 extends from its first end 521 to its second end 522 perpendicular to the plane defined by the net 2 when the net 2 and the inflatable structure 1 are unfolded.

[0054] The first end 521 of the mast 52 may comprise a rigid ring disposed circumferentially to the mast 52 and connected to the mast 52 by rigid parts. The ring is adapted to be connected to the net 2. This ring is adapted to allow a solid connection between the net 2 and the second mechanism 5, for example via suitable attachment means such as clamps. In addition, this ring advantageously allows the connection between the mast 52 and arms 50 of the second mechanism 5.

[0055] The second mechanism 5 comprises articulated arms 50. By articulated, it is understood that the arms 50 are articulated to each other. Furthermore, advantageously, an arm 50 is itself articulated in the sense that it comprises a plurality of articulated sections. Each arm 50 is thus advantageously movable.

[0056] The number of arms 50 advantageously depends on the size of the net 2 to be folded. Consequently, the number of arms 50, and therefore the second mechanism 5, can be designed so as to be adapted to a net size 2 and therefore to a kit size 100.

[0057] The arms 50 are adapted to be connected to the net 2. The second mechanism 5 advantageously comprises attachment means for connecting the arms 50 to the net 2. According to a certain embodiment, these attachment means are clamps adapted to extend from the arms 50 and to clamp parts of the net, in particular parts of wires making up the net. The clamps may be adapted to be activated electrically or pneumatically.

[0058] Advantageously, as illustrated in [Fig.4], the arms 50 comprise a plurality of main arms 501 and secondary arms 502. A main arm 501 extends from the mast 52 to the inflatable structure 1. Each secondary arm 502 extends from a main arm 501 to the inflatable structure 1. Consequently, there is one or more secondary arms 502 which extend from a main arm 501.

[0059] Each main arm 501 comprises an articulation 503 with at least one secondary arm 502. The articulation 503 is advantageously a pivot which allows a rotational movement of the secondary arm 502 relative to the main arm 501. As illustrated in [Fig.4], the main arms 501 each comprise a first end 5011 connected to the first end 521 of the mast 52 and a second end 5012 adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 52. By connected, it is meant that the second end 5012 of a main arm 501 is connected directly or indirectly to the inflatable structure 1. Advantageously, the second end 5012 of a main arm 501 is adapted to be connected indirectly to the inflatable structure 1, more precisely, the second end 5012 of a main arm 501 is adapted to be connected to the chassis 48 which is itself connected to the inflatable structure 1.

[0060] The secondary arms 502 each comprise a first end 5021 connected to a main arm 501 and a second end 5022 adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 1. Advantageously, the second end 5022 of a secondary arm 502 is adapted to be connected to the chassis 48 which is itself even connected to the inflatable structure 1.

[0061] Advantageously, the second end 5011, 5021 of each arm 50 is adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure 1 at an anchoring point 44 as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0062] Advantageously, as illustrated in [Fig.4], the plurality of arms 50 forms a pattern for folding the thread 1. Each arm 50 defines a vertex edge of the pattern. By vertex edge of the pattern, it is understood that the thread 2 forms vertices at these edges when it is folded or in the process of being folded. This has been shown diagrammatically in [Fig.8]. [Fig.8] illustrates a thread 2 at different stages of folding. The thread 2a is a thread 2 at the start of folding. The vertex edge A1 corresponds to a line of the thread 2 at the level of which a main arm 501 extends during folding if the folding system 10 was represented. The vertex edges A2 correspond to lines of the thread 2 at the level of which secondary arms 502 extend during folding if the folding system 10 was represented. By level, it is understood that arms 50 are connected to the net opposite these edges of the net 2. The net 2b is at a more advanced stage of folding than the net 2a.Vertex edges Al, A2 have also been shown. Net 2c is at a more advanced stage of folding than net 2b. Net 2d is at a more advanced stage of folding than net 2c.

[0063] As understood from Figures 4 and 8, the arms 50 are adapted to wrap around the mast 52 when the mast 52 is rotated. Indeed, when the mast 52 is rotated (the rotational movement is shown diagrammatically by an arrow in [Fig.4]), the arms 50 move and change position and shape, in particular due to the rotational movements at the joints between the arms 50 and within each arm 50. The second mechanism 5 is adapted so that, at the end of a step of folding the net 2, the arms 50 are brought together and wrapped around the mast 52.

[0064] Advantageously, the pattern formed by the arms 50 corresponds to a flasher-type origami folding pattern. This type of origami is known, particularly in the space domain. This type of origami allows an element to be folded in a rotational movement. In other words, it is a rotational movement, particularly preferably of the center of the element, which causes the element to fold. Here, our element is the net 2. A flasher-type origami folding pattern makes it possible to produce a folded net 2 which takes up little space in terms of volume. It is thus easier to transport it into space.

[0065] Preferably, the system 10 comprises third cables 9 connecting the mast 52 to the chassis 48. The third cables 9, which are arranged in a star shape, as illustrated in [Fig.2], make it possible to support the chassis 48. The third cables 9 make it possible to prevent the arms 50 from being cantilevered. It is not necessary for the arms 50 to be particularly robust? This makes it possible to dispense with arms 50 which would be too bulky. According to another embodiment, the system 10 does not include a third cable 9 and the arms 50 are designed to be robust so as to prevent the arms 50 from being cantilevered.

[0066] The second mechanism advantageously comprises a second cable 53 comprising a first end 531 connected to the mast 52 and a second end 532 as illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0067] The second mechanism advantageously comprises a second pulley 56, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 6, to which the second end 532 of the second cable 53 is connected. The second pulley 56 is adapted to allow the winding of the second cable 53.

[0068] Advantageously, the second mechanism 5 further comprises a device 54 for moving the mast 52 adapted to drive the mast 52 in rotation so as to cause the net 2 to fold, preferably according to the pattern, preferably according to the flasher type origami pattern.

[0069] Preferably, the moving device 54 is a rack and pinion type device as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. The moving device 54 of the mast 52 comprises a pinion 514 arranged at the second end 522 of the mast 52 and a rack 542. The pinion 541 is arranged to roll on the rack 54 when winding the second cable 53 onto the second pulley 56.

[0070] Advantageously, as illustrated in [Fig. 2], the rack 542 comprises a first end 5421 and a second end 5422. The rack 542 extends parallel to the plane P defined by the net 2 when the net 2 and the inflatable structure 1 are unfolded, from its first end 5421 arranged opposite the center C of the net 2 to its second end 5422. Advantageously, the second mechanism 5 is adapted to, when the second cable 53 is wound around the second pulley 56, allow the translation of the mast 52 in a direction D2 parallel to the direction of extension of the rack 542, from the first end 5421 of the rack 542 to the second end 5422 of the rack 542. The rotation of the mast 52 and the direction D2 are shown diagrammatically in [Fig. 5].

[0071] Preferably, the storage box 6 is arranged opposite the second end 5422 of the rack 5422 so that the kit 100 is found in the storage box 6 at the end of the translation of the mast 52.

[0072] As explained previously, the system 10 is adapted to allow the inflatable structure 1 to be folded synchronously with the folding of the net 2. For this purpose, the system 10 comprises an actuating means 9 adapted to synchronously actuate the first mechanism 4 and the second mechanism 5, more precisely the mast 52. In other words, the actuating means 9 makes it possible to actuate the first mechanism 4 simultaneously with the rotation of the mast 52. Advantageously, and more Specifically, the actuating means 9 makes it possible to actuate the first pulley 46 and the second pulley 56 synchronously. The actuating means 9 may for example be a motor as illustrated in [Fig.2], the motor being concealed in a housing. According to another embodiment, the actuating means may be a crank operable by an operator and the pulleys 46, 56 may therefore be actuated manually.

[0073] Advantageously, the first pulley 46 and the second pulley 56 are dimensioned to allow the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 to be folded synchronously. More precisely, preferably, the diameter of the first pulley 46 and the diameter of the second pulley 56 are adapted to allow the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 to be folded synchronously. In other words, the diameter of the first pulley 46 and the diameter of the second pulley 56 are adapted so that, respectively, the first cable 40 and the second cable 53 are wound so as to cause the inflatable structure 1 to be folded and the net 2 to be folded so that the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 are completely folded at the same time. Process

[0074] With reference to [Fig.9], a method of folding a deployable kit 100 for capturing space debris from the system 10 presented previously is proposed.

[0075] Advantageously, the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2 are completely unfolded during the implementation of the folding method.

[0076] The method comprises a step a) of arranging the system 10 so as to connect the first mechanism 4 to the inflatable structure 1 and to connect the second mechanism 5 to the inflatable structure 1 and to the net 2.

[0077] Advantageously, step a) comprises arranging the system 10 so as to connect the pillars 42, the anchor points 44 and the arms 50 to the inflatable structure 1 and to connect the arms 50 and the mast 52 to the net 2.

[0078] More precisely, the second ends 5012, 5022 of the arms 50 are connected to the inflatable structure 1 and the first end 521 of the mast 2 is connected to the center C of the net 2.

[0079] The connection of the first mechanism 4, in particular the pillars 42 and the anchoring points 44, to the inflatable structure 1 is preferably implemented by connecting the chassis 48, for example via collars 481, to the inflatable structure 1.

[0080] The connection of the second ends 5012, 5022 of the arms 50 to the inflatable structure 1 is advantageously implemented due to the connection of the chassis 48 to the inflatable structure 1, the arms 50 thus being indirectly connected to the inflatable structure 1.

[0081] The connection of the arms 50 and the mast 52 to the net 2 can be implemented for example via clamps as described previously.

[0082] At the end of step a), an assembly 8 is obtained comprising the system 10 and the kit 100, the first mechanism 4 being connected to the inflatable structure 1 and the second mechanism 5 being connected to the net 2.

[0083] Then, in a step b), the folding of the inflatable structure 1 and the folding of the net 2 are carried out synchronously. More precisely, the actuating means 9 is actuated so as to actuate the first mechanism 4 simultaneously with the rotation of the mast 52.

[0084] Advantageously, the inflatable structure 1 is in a deflated state during the implementation of step b). More precisely, the inflatable structure 1 may have been deflated prior to step b), or even prior to step a). According to a certain embodiment, it is the folding step b) which induces the deflation of the inflatable structure 1.

[0085] Advantageously, step b) comprises the rotation, by the actuating means 9, of the first pulley 46 and the second pulley 56. The first pulley 46 and the second pulley 56 are rotated so as to allow the folding of the inflatable structure 1 and the folding of the net 2 in a synchronous manner.

[0086] Consequently, the first cable 40 is wound around the first pulley 46 via the two ends 401, 402 of the first cable 40. This causes a translation of the first cable 40 in the holes 4221 of the pillars 42 and in the openings 441 of the anchoring points 44. This causes a displacement of each pillar 42 in the direction DI perpendicular to the plane P defined by the net 2 when the net 2 and the inflatable structure 1 are unfolded in a direction from the second end 422 towards the first end 421 of said pillar 42. The winding of the first cable 40 also causes the consecutive pillars 42 to move closer together. This is shown diagrammatically in [Fig.3].

[0087] Advantageously, the inflatable structure 1 is folded in a zig-zag pattern.

[0088] Different stages of folding of the inflatable structure 1 are illustrated in [Fig.7].

[0089] Simultaneously, the second cable 50 is wound around the second pulley 56. This causes the mast 52 to be pulled towards the second pulley 56. The winding of the second cable 50 makes it possible to engage the displacement device 54 of the mast 52 which drives the mast 52 in rotation.

[0090] Advantageously, as illustrated in [Fig.3], the pinion 541 rolls on the rack 542. The mast 52 therefore translates towards the second end of the rack 5421.

[0091] The rotation of the mast 52 further causes the arms 50 to be wrapped around the mast 52. Consequently, the net 2 folds according to the pattern formed by the arms 50. Preferably, the folding of the net 2 is a flasher-type origami fold. In other words, the net 2 folds in the same way as a flasher-type origami.

[0092] Different stages of folding of the net are illustrated in [Fig.8].

[0093] Preferably, the mast 52 translates towards the storage box 6.

[0094] Advantageously, the mast 52 translates to the storage box 6. The method preferably comprises a step c) of the kit 100, i.e. the inflatable structure 1 and the net 2, folded into the storage box 6. The kit 100 is therefore folded in a space-saving manner, which is a particularly important constraint in the context of transport into the space of the kit 100.

[0095] It is understood that, in practice, it is not only the kit 100 which ends up folded, possibly in the storage box 6. In fact, the assembly 8 comprising the system 10 and the connected kit 100 ends up folded.

Claims

Claims

1. System (10) for folding a deployable kit (100) for capturing space debris, the kit (100) comprising an inflatable structure (1) and a net (2) supported by the inflatable structure (1), the system (10) comprising: - a first mechanism (4) for folding the inflatable structure (1) adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1); - a second mechanism (5) for folding the net (2) comprising: - articulated arms (50) adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1); - a mast (52) movable in rotation adapted to be arranged in the center of the net (2) perpendicular to a plane (P) defined by the net (2) when the net (2) and the inflatable structure (1) are unfolded, the mast (52) being adapted to be connected to the net (2), the arms (50) being adapted to be connected to the net (2) and to wrap around the mast (52) during the rotation thereof, - a means of actuation (9) of the first mechanism (4) simultaneously with a rotation of the mast (52), so as to allow a folding of the inflatable structure (1) synchronous with the folding of the net (2).

2. System (10) according to claim 1 wherein: - the first mechanism (4), comprises: - a first cable (40) comprising a first end (401), a second end (402), - pillars (42), each pillar (42) comprising a first end (421) adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1) and a second end (422) having a hole (4221) crossed by the first cable (40), each pillar (42) being adapted to extend from its first end (421) perpendicular to the plane (P) defined by the net (2) when the net (2) and the inflatable structure (1) are unfolded, - anchoring points (44), each anchoring point (44) being adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1) between two pillars (42) and having an opening (441) crossed by the first cable (40), the first cable (40) thus alternately passing through holes (4221) of pillars (42) and openings (441) of anchoring points (44), the openings (441) of anchoring points (44) being further away from the net (2) that the holes (4221) of pillars (42) when the net (2) and the inflatable structure (1) are unfolded, - a first pulley (46) to which the first end (401) and the second end (402) of the first cable (40) are connected, the first pulley (46) being adapted to allow the winding of the first cable (40) so that the winding of the first cable (40) via both its first end (401) and its second end (402) causes each pillar (42) to move in a direction (Dl) perpendicular to the plane (P) defined by the net (2) when the net (2) and the inflatable structure (1) are unfolded, in a direction from the second end (422) towards the first end (421) of said pillar (42), so that the winding of the first cable (40) causes consecutive pillars (42) to move closer together and thus causes the inflatable structure (1) to fold, - in the second mechanism (5) for folding the net (2): - the mast (52) comprises a first end (521) adapted to be connected to the center of the net (2) and a second end (522),the mast (52) extending from its first end (521) to its second end (522) perpendicular to the plane defined by the net (2) when the net (2) and the inflatable structure (1) are unfolded, - the arms (50) comprise a plurality of main arms (501) and secondary arms (502), each main arm (501) comprising an articulation (503) with at least one secondary arm (502), the main arms (501) each comprising a first end (5011) connected to the first end (521) of the mast (52) and a second end (5012) adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (52), the secondary arms (502) each comprising a first end (5021) connected to a main arm (501) and a second end (5022) adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1), the plurality of arms (50) forming a pattern for folding the net (1), each arm (50) defining a vertex edge of the pattern,- the second mechanism (5) comprises: - a device (54) for moving the mast (52) adapted to drive the mast (52) in rotation so as to cause the net (2) to fold according to the pattern.,

3. The system (10) of claim 2, wherein the pattern formed by the arms (50) corresponds to a flasher-type origami folding pattern.

4. A system (10) according to any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein the pillars (42) are located equidistant from each other along the inflatable structure (1) when the inflatable structure (1) is unfolded.

5. System (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the second end (5011, 5021) of each arm (50) is adapted to be connected to the inflatable structure (1) at an anchoring point (44).

6. System (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the second mechanism (5) comprises: - a second cable (53) comprising a first end (531) connected to the mast (52) and a second end (532), - a second pulley (56) to which the second end (532) of the second cable (53) is connected, the second pulley (56) being adapted to allow the winding of the second cable (53), and wherein the device (54) for moving the mast (52) comprises a pinion (514) arranged at the second end (522) of the mast (52) and a rack (542), the pinion (541) being arranged to roll on the rack (54) when winding the second cable (53) onto the second pulley (56).

7. System (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the diameter of the first pulley (46) and the diameter of the second pulley (56) are adapted to allow folding of the inflatable structure (1) and folding of the net (2) in a synchronous manner.

8. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a storage box (6) adapted to accommodate the kit (100) when folded.

9. System according to claims 6 and 8, wherein the rack (542) comprises a first end (5421) and a second end (5422) and extends parallel to the plane (P) defined by the net (2) when the net (2) and the inflatable structure (1) are unfolded from its first end (5421) arranged opposite the center (C) of the net (2) to its second end (5422), the second mechanism (5) being adapted to, when the second cable (53) is wound around the second pulley (56), allow the translation of the mast (52) in a direction (D2) parallel to the direction of extension of the rack (542),from the first end (5421) of the rack (542) to the second end (5422) of the rack (542) and in which the storage box (6) is arranged opposite the second end (5422) of the rack (5422) so that the kit (100) is found in the storage box (6) at the end of the translation of the mast (52).,

10. An assembly (8) comprising the system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and a kit (100) comprising an inflatable structure (1) and a net (2) supported by the inflatable structure (1), wherein the first mechanism (4) is connected to the inflatable structure (1) and the second mechanism (5) is connected to the net (2).

11. A method of folding a deployable kit (100) for capturing space debris from a system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the kit (100) comprising an inflatable structure (1) and a net (2) supported by the inflatable structure (1), the method comprising the steps of: a) arranging the system (10) so as to connect the first mechanism (4) to the inflatable structure (1) and the second mechanism (5) to the inflatable structure (1) and the net (2), b) folding the inflatable structure (1) and folding the net (2) synchronously.

12. A folding method according to claim 11, wherein the folding of the inflatable structure (1) is a zig-zag folding.

13. A folding method according to any one of claims 11 and 12, wherein the folding of the net (2) is a flasher-type origami folding.

14. A folding method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the inflatable structure (1) is in a deflated state.

15. Folding method according to any one of claims 11 to 14 from the system (10) according to claim 8, comprising a step c) of arranging the folded kit (100) in the storage box (6).

16. A folding method according to claim 15 from the system (10) according to claim 9, wherein step b) comprises translating the mast (52) towards the storage box (6).

17. A folding method according to any one of claims 11 to 16 from the system (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 7 and 9 or according to claim 8 when dependent on claim 2, wherein: - step a) comprises arranging the system (10) so as to connect the pillars (42), the anchor points (44) and the arms (50) to the inflatable structure (1) and to connect the arms (50) and the mast (52) to the net (2), - step b) comprises rotating the first pulley (46) and the second pulley (56).

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