Modular Payload Lifter with Tension Arm for Lunar Operations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional payload handling devices are inefficient for lunar or planetary operations, as they lack the ability to perform multiple functions and are not readily transportable or configurable for various tasks.

Innovation Solution

A payload lifter/manipulator module with a rotatable joint, spreader arms, and a tension arm system, actuated by a linear mechanism, allowing for robotic-like movements and precise control of payload positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional cranes and fork-lifts are used for payload handling, then payload lifting and manipulation can be performed, but device utilization efficiency is poor and multiple functions cannot be provided

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemultiple functionsVSAvoiddevice utilization efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The payload lifter/manipulator module is designed to perform multiple functions including payload lifting, manipulation, and precise positioning through a single integrated system. The module can adapt to different payload sizes and types, and can be configured for various operational tasks, thereby improving device utilization efficiency and eliminating the need for multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If conventional payload handling devices are used, then payload lifting can be achieved, but precision manipulation capability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload positioning precisionVSAvoidmanipulation capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The module incorporates dynamic control capabilities with adjustable spreader arm positions and rotatable joints that enable precise manipulation of payloads. The system can adapt its configuration in real-time to achieve accurate positioning and perform complex manipulation tasks that conventional static devices cannot accomplish.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If devices are designed for lunar or planetary operations, then efficiency can be improved, but transportability by launch vehicle becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidtransportability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The payload lifter/manipulator is designed as a modular system that can be segmented into smaller components for easy transport by launch vehicle. The module can be assembled and configured on the lunar or planetary surface, allowing the system to maintain operational efficiency while being transportable through standard launch vehicle constraints.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If devices are designed for lunar or planetary operations, then multiple functions can be provided, but assembly and configuration for various tasks becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetask configuration capabilityVSAvoidassembly and configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The modular design allows the system to be assembled from standardized components that can be easily configured for different tasks. The segmentation enables simplified assembly procedures while maintaining the capability to adapt to various operational requirements on lunar or planetary surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 efficient and precise payload lifting and manipulation, suitable for both macro and micro operations, with modular design facilitating easy assembly and transportation for lunar or planetary applications.

Implementation Method 1

A linear actuator is used to actuate the joint. This can be realized in several ways, for example as a hoist and cable as shown herein, or with a hoist and tape, or with a threaded rod and nut

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

The tension arm incorporates pivots along the length thereof. Each pivot can be engaged by or disengaged from the outboard end of one of the spreader arms based on a position of the spreader arm

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS7878348B2Robotic-movement payload lifter and manipulator

Publication Date: 2011.02.01 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE ADMINISTRATOR NAT AERONAUTICS & SPACE ADMINISTRATION

AI summary

A payload lifter/manipulator module includes a rotatable joint supporting spreader arms angularly spaced with respect to one another. A rigid arm is fixedly coupled to the joint and extends out therefrom to a tip. A tension arm has a first end and a second end with the first end being fixedly coupled to the tip of the rigid arm. The tension arm incorporates pivots along the length thereof. Each pivot can be engaged by or disengaged from the outboard end of a spreader arm based on a position of the spreader arm. A hoist, positioned remotely with respect to the module and coupled to the second end of the tension arm, controls the position of the spreader arms to thereby control the position of the rigid arm's tip. Payload lifter/manipulator assemblies can be constructed with one or more of the modules.