Composite Payload Adapter Ring for Lightweight Spacecraft Dispenser
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current launch systems for small spacecraft lack effective and affordable alternatives that provide better adaptation to standard mechanisms, necessitating a lightweight dispenser that can securely and efficiently launch small satellites without risking the primary spacecraft.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight spacecraft dispenser featuring a ring structure with payload ports made from composite materials and a partially spherical surface, which reduces weight and allows for improved satellite fixation, utilizing automated manufacturing techniques like AFP for cost reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a metallic ring structure (ESPA) is used for launching small spacecraft, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but weight increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) to replace traditional metallic ring structures. The composite material provides sufficient structural strength while reducing weight by approximately 70% compared to aluminum alloy equivalents, directly resolving the contradiction between strength and weight
2Ease of manufacture
If a monolithic cylindrical structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different satellite configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monolithic cylindrical structure into a modular ring structure with multiple payload ports arranged circumferentially. This segmentation allows different satellite configurations to be accommodated in different ports while maintaining a simple manufactured ring body, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability
3Manufacturing precision
If a flat ring surface is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but satellite fixation stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spherical curvature to the ring structure's outer surface, creating a spherical support surface that naturally conforms to and stabilizes satellite payloads. This curvature improves fixation stability while modern composite manufacturing techniques maintain sufficient fabrication precision, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and fixation stability
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
Lightweight spacecraft dispenser (1), which consists of a ring structure with several payload ports (2), the surface (3) of the ring structure being at least partially spherical.