Curved Arm Thrust Vector Control Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thruster systems face challenges with complex designs that increase weight and limit freedom of movement, making it difficult to extend and retract thrusters axially, adjust thrust vector angles, and translate laterally.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising curved support arms with rotatable connections and actuators, such as piezoelectric motors, allows for axial extension and retraction, lateral translation, and rotational movement of thrusters, utilizing gear trains for mechanical advantage and a controller for precise positioning, along with thermal management features like copper ropes for heat rejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex devices are used to control thruster positioning and force vector modification, then the thruster can achieve precise positioning and thrust vector control, but the system weight increases and freedom of movement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control mechanism into multiple independent curved arms (first curved arm, second curved arm, third curved arm) that can move independently. Each arm is controlled by its own actuator, allowing distributed control of the thruster's six-degree-of-freedom motion. This segmentation reduces the weight and complexity of a single monolithic control device while maintaining precise positioning capability through coordinated arm movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic curved arms that can change their configuration and movement patterns based on control signals. The arms transition between extended and retracted states, and between different angular positions, enabling the thruster to achieve precise positioning and thrust vector control. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to maintain precision without requiring overly rigid and heavy structural support.
2Measurement precision
If complex devices are used to control thruster positioning and force vector modification, then the thruster can achieve precise positioning and thrust vector control, but the freedom of movement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The curved arm mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the thruster, enables six-degree-of-freedom motion (three translational and three rotational movements), and acts as a control linkage for precise positioning. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve comprehensive freedom of movement without requiring separate mechanisms for each function, thereby maintaining adaptability while ensuring precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic curved arms that can adapt their configuration to achieve different motion requirements. The arms can extend and retract to provide lateral translation, rotate to enable angular adjustment of the thrust vector, and coordinate to achieve axial extension and retraction. This dynamic adaptability ensures comprehensive freedom of movement while maintaining precise control through coordinated actuation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If axial extension and retraction of thruster is implemented, then the system achieves improved thrust vector control, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines axial extension/retraction, lateral translation, and rotational movement into a single integrated curved arm mechanism. The same curved arms that enable lateral movement and angular adjustment also provide axial positioning when coordinated together. This merging of functions reduces device complexity compared to using separate mechanisms for each degree of freedom, while maintaining comprehensive thrust vector control capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If lateral translation of thruster is implemented, then the system achieves improved thrust vector control, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges lateral translation functionality into the curved arm mechanism that also provides rotational and axial control. The curved arms can extend and retract laterally while simultaneously rotating to adjust the thrust vector angle. This integration of multiple functions into a single mechanism reduces overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive thrust vector control capability.
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
The system provides enhanced freedom of movement and control over thruster position and thrust vector direction, reducing weight and complexity while maintaining structural integrity and thermal management, applicable across various propulsion systems.
Implementation Method 1
actuators, such as piezoelectric motors
Implementation Method 2
spherical bearings that allow for rotation in multiple axes
Implementation Method 3
utilizing gear trains for mechanical advantage
Implementation Method 4
thermal management features like copper ropes for heat rejection
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to thrust vector control mechanisms. Mechanisms are provided comprising support and attachment members for securing a thruster or other object to an additional object and wherein the thruster or object is provided with freedom of movement. At least one motor is provided to control movement and positioning of a thruster or similar object.