Eddy Current Sensor Array for Spacecraft Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the relative position of objects in space, such as satellites or space debris, are hindered by the need for extensive image processing and are sensitive to lighting conditions, with limited availability of space-qualified lasers and high dependency on solar illumination.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device comprising multiple eddy current sensors arranged in a row with overlapping detection areas, allowing for precise determination of relative position independently of lighting conditions through signal comparison and evaluation by an integrated unit, enabling robust and redundant position determination in geostationary orbits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If light stripe sensors with laser projection are used to determine distance, then measurement capability is achieved, but image processing effort increases considerably and space-qualified lasers are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical measurement systems (light stripe sensors, cameras, lasers) with an electrical measurement system based on eddy current sensors. This substitution eliminates the need for complex image processing while providing direct electrical signals for distance determination, resolving the contradiction between measurement capability and processing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the measurement function from the optical domain and implements it in the electrical domain using eddy current sensors. By taking out the distance measurement capability from the camera-based system, the patent achieves simpler signal evaluation without requiring space-qualified lasers or extensive image processing
2Measurement precision
If infrared sensors are used for distance measurement, then triangulation-based measurement is achieved, but dependency on ambient sunlight increases and precise alignment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces infrared optical sensors with electrical eddy current sensors, substituting an electromagnetic measurement system that is independent of ambient light conditions. This substitution eliminates the harmful dependency on sunlight while maintaining distance measurement precision through electrical signal detection
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the measurement parameter domain from optical (infrared) to electrical (eddy currents). By measuring electrical properties instead of optical properties, the system achieves distance measurement independence from ambient sunlight conditions while maintaining precision
3Measurement precision
If single point-based measurement is used with infrared sensors, then distance measurement is achieved, but alignment difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into multiple eddy current sensors arranged in a row, each contributing to the overall position determination. This segmentation allows the system to determine relative position through comparison of signals from multiple sensors, eliminating the need for precise single-point alignment while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the measurement capability of multiple eddy current sensors into a unified position determination system. By combining signals from several sensors with overlapping detection ranges, the system achieves accurate relative position measurement without requiring precise alignment of individual measurement points
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 precise and reliable determination of object position and distance, reducing data processing effort and minimizing environmental influences, with the ability to maintain accuracy across varying sensitivity scatter and lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor device (10) for determining a relative position of an object (1) in space with respect to the sensor device (10) comprises a plurality of eddy current sensors (11, 12, 13, 14), in particular arranged in a row, with overlapping detection areas (F1, F2, F3, F4) and an evaluation unit (15), which determines the relative position from signals (s1a, s1b, s1c, s2b, s2c, s3b, s3c) detected by the individual eddy current sensors (11, 12, 13, 14)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
A sensor device (10) for determining the relative position of an object (1) in space with respect to the sensor device is disclosed. The sensor device comprises a plurality of eddy current sensors (11, 12, 13, 14) whose detection ranges overlap at least partially. Furthermore, the sensor device comprises an evaluation unit (15) configured to determine the relative position from the signals (s1a, s1b, s1c, s2b, s2c, s3b, s3c) detected by each of the individual eddy current sensors. Also disclosed is a capture device (100) comprising a gripping device (110), a guide device (120) for the gripping device, and a sensor device (10). A determination method for determining the relative position of an object (1) in space with respect to a sensor device (10) and a capture method for capturing an object in space are also disclosed.