Adapted-Torque Motorisation System for Spacecraft Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorization systems for deploying spatial appendages, such as antennas or solar generators, face issues with end-of-deployment shocks and irregular engine torques due to evolving motorization torque, leading to potential damage and parasitic torques harmful to spacecraft piloting, and previous solutions either result in increased weight or limited angular deployment capacity.
Innovation Solution
A motorization device with controlled torque is achieved by configuring flexible tracks with a specific spiral shape and winding means around winding cylinders, where the point of contact between flexible tracks is offset from the crossing point of the winding means, allowing torque adjustment through varying distances and stiffness, ensuring consistent torque throughout deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If scalable or variable motorization torque is used to ensure full deployment, then deployment capability is improved, but end-of-travel shocks and parasitic torques increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the winding radius of the flexible tracks around the winding cylinders during deployment. The winding radius is smallest at the beginning of deployment to provide high torque for overcoming inertia and friction, then gradually increases to reduce torque and minimize end-of-travel shocks. This dynamic parameter adjustment allows the system to adapt torque output to deployment stage requirements, improving deployment capability while reducing harmful shocks.
2Strength
If deployable structures are sized and reinforced to withstand end-of-travel impacts, then structural integrity is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by regulating the deployment speed and torque profile before the appendage reaches full deployment. Through controlled winding radius variation and speed regulation, the system prevents excessive impact forces from occurring in the first place, eliminating the need for additional structural reinforcement and thereby avoiding weight increase while maintaining structural integrity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If near-zero resistive torque mechanisms are used, then motor power requirement is reduced, but deployment speed regulation becomes difficult causing energy release and shocks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the winding radius a variable parameter that changes during deployment rather than remaining constant. The winding radius is dynamically adjusted based on deployment stage: smaller at the beginning for high torque, larger at the end for low torque. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain near-zero resistive torque throughout deployment while regulating deployment speed and preventing energy release shocks.
4Force
If existing flexible tracks with specific shape are used to create offset between contact point and intersection point, then torque control is improved, but control of contact point position becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the winding radius as an intermediary parameter that mediates between the flexible track geometry and the torque output. Instead of directly controlling contact point position, the system controls the winding radius, which indirectly and more easily controls both the contact point position and the torque magnitude. This intermediary approach simplifies control while maintaining effective torque regulation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration minimizes end-of-travel shocks, regulates deployment speed, and maintains a consistent motorization margin, reducing weight and enhancing the structural integrity of deployable appendages while allowing for precise torque control.
Implementation Method 1
a prestressing force being applied to said point of contact of the flexible tracks under the effect of the winding means
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
The device has two parallel winding cylinders (1a, 1b) two flexible tracks, where one track is fitted to each winding cylinder, and the tracks are arranged facing each other and having a point of contact. Each cylinder has a circumference over a determined portion (11a, 13a), and another circumference over another determined portion (11b, 13b). Each linear section (3a, 3b) of a link element is wound on the former portion of the former cylinder, and on latter portion of latter cylinder, or on the latter portion of the former cylinder, and on the former portion of the latter cylinder. An independent claim is also included for a satellite deploying system.