Blind Mate Mechanism for Simultaneous Multi-Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional coupling technologies lack reliable mechanisms for robots to make structural, electrical, and fluid connections in harsh environments, such as space, and do not allow for simultaneous connections, which are typically made by humans.

Innovation Solution

A blind mate mechanism that enables simultaneous multiple connections, including mechanical, fluid, and electrical connections, using a removable side with a drive bolt and connectors, and a fixed side with a threaded receiving interface, allowing for robot-friendly operation and over-travel protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If conventional coupling technologies are used, then human operators can make connections, but robots cannot reliably make structural, electrical, and fluid connections in harsh environments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverobotic operation capabilityVSAvoidconnection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The blind mate mechanism is designed to automatically align and connect multiple types of connections (structural, electrical, fluid) through a single mating action without requiring human intervention or complex alignment procedures. The mechanism self-adjusts to accommodate misalignment through built-in compliance features, enabling robots to reliably make connections in harsh environments where human operators would otherwise be required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If multiple connections are made sequentially as in conventional methods, then each connection can be made carefully, but the process requires multiple steps and human intervention

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection speedVSAvoidnumber of connection steps

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The blind mate mechanism merges multiple separate connection operations (structural fastening, electrical connector engagement, fluid coupling connection) into a single mating action. When two components are mated, all connection types occur simultaneously through the integrated design of the interface, eliminating the need for sequential operations and reducing the overall complexity of the connection process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection interface is designed as a universal multi-functional mechanism that handles structural, electrical, and fluid connections through a single standardized interface. This multi-functionality allows one mating action to accomplish what would otherwise require multiple different connection procedures, significantly improving productivity while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If connectors are allowed to extend freely, then connection flexibility is maximized, but overextension or overcompression can damage the connectors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection flexibilityVSAvoidconnector protection

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The blind mate mechanism incorporates built-in compliance features and controlled extension paths that prevent connectors from overextending or overcompressing during the mating process. The design includes features such as controlled travel distances, cushioning elements, and mechanical stops that are built into the connector housing, providing beforehand protection against damage while still allowing sufficient flexibility for accurate connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

Enables robots to make multiple connections in a single motion, enhancing operational efficiency and safety in harsh environments by facilitating structural, electrical, and fluid couplings, and extending the operational lifetime of space vehicles through on-orbit replacement of components like SEP thrusters.

Implementation Method 1

The drive bolt also includes a spring located between the stopping projection and the narrowing part of the drive bolt housing

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The fixed side includes a threaded receiving interface configured to receive the drive bolt

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScrew: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS10958014B1Blind mate mechanism

Publication Date: 2021.03.23 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE ADMINISTRATOR NAT AERONAUTICS & SPACE ADMINISTRATION

AI summary

Blind mate mechanisms that are capable of simultaneously making multiple connections in a single motion are disclosed. Such mechanisms may be useful for applications where two or more of structural, electrical, and/or fluid couplings could be made manually or robotically at the same time using the mechanism. The mechanism may include a removable side and a fixed side.