Magnetic Spacecraft Docking Structure for Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite docking systems, particularly open-loop systems, are complex, expensive, and prone to tribology issues, compromising reliability and alignment precision during docking operations.
Innovation Solution
A space docking device featuring a reversible magnetic attachment system with an elastic linkage and magnetic suction cups, allowing self-alignment and compensation for errors in alignment and relative velocities between spacecraft, using activatable and passive magnetic parts and an elastic linkage system for flexible attachment and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If open-loop docking systems are used to reduce cost, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and alignment accuracy deteriorate due to lack of autonomous control
Solution Approach 1:
The docking system enables self-alignment through the elastic linkage system that automatically compensates for misalignments between spacecraft without requiring complex autonomous control systems. The elastic elements passively adapt to positioning errors, allowing the system to self-correct alignment issues that would otherwise require expensive robotic control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the linkage from rigid to elastic, allowing controlled deformation that compensates for alignment errors. The elastic elements can stretch and compress to absorb positioning discrepancies, transforming the system's mechanical properties to achieve precision without complex control.
2Reliability
If mechanical mooring systems with arms and clamps are used, then docking reliability improves, but device complexity and tribology issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical mooring systems with arms, clamps, and hooks with a simplified magnetic attachment system. Magnets provide the docking force without requiring mechanical grasping mechanisms, eliminating the tribology issues associated with mechanical contact and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field serves as an intermediary between the docking surfaces, providing attachment force without direct mechanical contact. This magnetic mediation eliminates the need for complex mechanical interfaces and reduces wear and tribology issues that would occur with direct mechanical contact systems.
3Strength
If rigid docking structures are used, then structural strength improves, but adaptability to alignment errors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The docking structure transitions from a static rigid configuration to a dynamic system with elastic elements that can deform and adapt. The elastic linkage allows the structure to dynamically respond to alignment errors by stretching and compressing, maintaining structural integrity while accommodating positioning discrepancies that rigid structures cannot tolerate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs elastic linkage elements that function similarly to flexible components, allowing controlled deformation to absorb alignment errors. These elastic elements provide the necessary flexibility to adapt to misalignments while maintaining sufficient structural strength for reliable docking.
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 device ensures reliable and simple docking by enabling self-alignment and compensation for misalignments, reducing reliance on precise ground operator judgment and minimizing tribology issues, suitable for open-loop approaches.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic docking suction cup comprising a first part intended to be carried by the spacecraft to be docked and a second part carried by the docking structure
Implementation Method 2
an elastic linking system between the base and the docking module, the docking module and the base being arranged opposite each other, and the reversible magnetic attachment system being configured to allow the base and the docking module to move closer together and further apart
Implementation Method 3
The docking structure also allows for the generation of a repulsive force to assist in the release of the spacecraft to be docked
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a space docking device (1) comprising a docking structure (10) for a spacecraft to be docked (2), said docking structure (10) comprising a reversible magnetic attachment system (13), the reversible attachment system (13) comprising at least one magnetic docking suction cup (130) comprising a first part (131) intended to be carried by the spacecraft to be docked (2) and a second part (132) carried by the docking structure (10), said docking structure (10) also comprising a base (11), a docking module (12) and an elastic linkage system (14) between the base (11) and the docking module (12), the docking module (12) carrying the second part (132) of said at least one suction cup, the docking module (12) and the base (11) being arranged opposite each other,and the reversible magnetic attachment system (13) being configured to allow the base (11) and the docking module (12) to move closer together and further apart.