Annular Track Storage Modules for Spacecraft Payload Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spacecraft storage systems are inefficient for quickly loading, unloading, and accessing diverse items due to their fixed nature, which occupies significant internal volume and is not easily accessible to astronauts or robotic manipulators, especially in small space capsules during reentry.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage system with moveable modules on an annular track within the space capsule, allowing easy access and secure locking, with integrated power and data connectivity, enabling efficient use of the annular volume for diverse payloads and experiments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed storage lockers are used inside the spacecraft, then structural containment is provided, but loading and unloading time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system transitions from fixed lockers to moveable modules that can be dynamically repositioned on a circular track. The modules can be rotated into accessible positions near the hatch for rapid loading/unloading and locked into place during flight, providing both speed and structural security.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent modular units that can be individually moved, accessed, and configured. Each module can be independently positioned on the track, allowing selective access without moving other items and enabling parallel operations during loading/unloading.
2Reliability
If fixed storage lockers are used, then items are contained securely, but accessibility to items deteriorates due to distance from hatch
Solution Approach 1:
Modules can be dynamically repositioned along the circular track to bring items close to the hatch for easy access during loading/unloading, then moved to secure positions during flight. This dynamic repositioning maintains both accessibility and containment security.
Solution Approach 2:
Items are pre-positioned in modules that can be rapidly brought to the hatch area before needed operations. The system allows preliminary placement of items in accessible positions, then secures them for flight, eliminating the need to reach into distant fixed lockers during critical operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated storage lockers are designed for specific items, then item organization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses universal modular storage units that can accommodate diverse items through standardized interfaces and configurable internal arrangements. Rather than dedicated lockers for each item type, a single modular platform serves multiple functions by reconfiguring module positions and contents based on mission requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is segmented into standardized modular units with uniform interfaces. Each module can be independently configured for different item types while maintaining the same external dimensions and mounting interface, simplifying the overall system design while preserving organizational flexibility.
4Quantity of substance
If fixed lockers occupy substantial internal volume, then storage capacity is provided, but available spacecraft volume for other uses decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system transitions from occupying fixed three-dimensional locker volumes to using a one-dimensional circular track with moveable modules. This allows the storage capacity to be distributed along the track perimeter while minimizing the footprint in the spacecraft's main volume, freeing up interior space for other uses.
Solution Approach 2:
The moveable modules on the circular track allow storage capacity to be dynamically adjusted and repositioned without requiring fixed volumetric allocation. Items can be accessed from the track periphery without blocking the central spacecraft volume, maintaining storage capacity while maximizing available space for crew activities and other equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A spacecraft onboard equipment and payload storage system comprising a spacecraft having an interior volume, wherein said interior volume comprises a interior annular portion; a annular storage support track connected to said spacecraft within said spacecraft's interior annular portion; and at least one storage module that is movably connected to said annular storage support track.