Nested Ring Cell Structures for Reconfigurable Space Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional space systems lack adaptability and are not designed to reconfigure their morphology upon command, with limited capabilities for interlocking and forming larger structures, and elongated payloads are difficult to collapse for launch.
Innovation Solution
A cell-based space system with nested ring structures that interlock and reconfigure, allowing for collapsible and stackable designs, enabling efficient mass movement and adaptability through movable trams and rotatable rings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional space systems are designed with fixed morphology, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability and reconfigurability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The space system is divided into multiple interlocking cell modules that can independently attach and detach. Each cell contains standardized docking interfaces that enable reconfiguration of the overall structure while maintaining local structural integrity through the interlocking mechanism between cells
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs movable trams that can travel along rings within cells, enabling dynamic repositioning of payloads and reconfiguration of the structure. The trams can move between different positions on the rings, allowing the system to adapt its morphology while maintaining structural stability through controlled motion
2Adaptability or versatility
If elongated payloads are designed for optimal performance, then functional capability is maximized, but stowability during launch is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cell modules are designed with nested ring structures where inner rings can be positioned within outer rings. The movable trams can collapse the nested rings into a compact configuration during launch, reducing the overall length and volume of payloads while allowing them to extend to full operational length once deployed in space
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a linear elongated structure to a three-dimensional nested ring configuration. By arranging components in multiple dimensions rather than a single linear axis, the payload achieves optimal performance dimensions when deployed while maintaining compact stowability during launch
3Ease of repair
If space systems are designed as integrated units, then structural integrity is maintained, but ease of repair and replacement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The space system is segmented into standardized cell modules with uniform docking interfaces. Each cell can be independently replaced by detaching the failed module and attaching a replacement cell through the standardized interfaces, simplifying repair operations despite the modular complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The docking interfaces and cell structures are designed to be universal across all modules in the system. This universality allows any cell to replace any other cell, and enables simplified repair procedures where standard replacement cells can service multiple different positions without requiring position-specific components
Data Source
AI summary
Cell-based space systems with nested-ring structures that interlock and can change configuration to support a mission are disclosed. The cells may self-assemble into a larger structure to carry out a mission. Multiple rotatable rings may be included in a cell, with a payload/control section in the center. The rings may provide power and/or data to trams that move about the rails. Trams may interlock with other cells, carry sensors or other devices, etc. Cells may be stowed in a cell stack that is deployable. Such cell-based systems may have various applications in space, on Earth, other celestial bodies, and underwater.