Multiple Payload Set Assembly with Ground Support Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assembling payloads onto a dispenser body are time-consuming and inefficient due to the limited space between payloads, making it difficult to mount multiple satellites simultaneously without increasing the launch vehicle's weight.
Innovation Solution
A multiple payload set is interconnected via a non-self-supported connection structure before assembly, using first and second attachment means with a ground support equipment (GSE) to facilitate simultaneous mounting and transport, allowing for efficient alignment and secure attachment to the dispenser body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If payloads are assembled one by one onto the dispenser body, then assembly precision can be maintained, but assembly time increases significantly and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling multiple payloads onto a temporary support structure before final installation on the dispenser body. This allows payloads to be prepared in advance with proper positioning and connections established, then transferred as a group to the dispenser, significantly reducing on-site assembly time while maintaining precision through the structured support framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly process is segmented into distinct phases: preliminary assembly on support structure, transfer to dispenser body, and final securing. This segmentation allows each phase to be optimized independently - precision work done during preliminary assembly, and rapid deployment during transfer - resolving the contradiction between speed and accuracy.
2Productivity
If more payloads are mounted simultaneously onto the dispenser body, then productivity improves, but the limited space between payloads makes assembly difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The temporary support structure serves as an intermediary between the ground and the dispenser body, providing a stable platform for pre-assembling multiple payloads. This intermediary structure simplifies the assembly process by offering adequate workspace and proper positioning fixtures, reducing the complexity that would otherwise result from working directly on the constrained dispenser body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the assembly operation to another dimension by using a temporary support structure that extends the working space beyond the limited dispenser body confines. This additional dimensional space allows multiple payloads to be assembled simultaneously with proper access for tools and personnel, reducing assembly complexity while increasing productivity.
3Weight of moving object
If a lightweight connection structure is used to interconnect payloads, then weight is reduced, but the structure cannot support lifting and maneuvering of the multiple payload set
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between two states: during transport and assembly, the temporary support structure provides full structural support; during flight, the separation devices activate to release payloads from the support structure. This dynamic behavior allows the connection structure to be optimized for weight while the temporary support handles load-bearing requirements during ground operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The load-bearing parameters of the connection system change over time - the temporary support structure provides high strength during ground handling, then separation devices reduce the connection strength to zero during payload release. This parameter change over time allows the lightweight permanent connection structure to suffice without compromising transport capability.
4Manufacturing precision
If the connection structure is made rigid to maintain payload positioning, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the structure becomes heavier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Precise positioning is achieved through preliminary action during the ground assembly phase using the temporary support structure, which provides rigid positioning fixtures and alignment tools. Once payloads are positioned with required precision on the support structure, the entire assembly is transferred to the dispenser body, eliminating the need for a permanently rigid heavy connection structure while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly comprising a multiple payload set for a launch vehicle and a stiff and rigid ground support equipment. The multiple payload set comprising a plurality of payloads, wherein the plurality of payloads are interconnected via a non-self-supported connection structure before assembly of the multiple payload set to a dispenser body. Each payload comprises first attachment means attached to the non-self-supported connection structure, wherein the non-self-supported connection structure comprises second attachment means attached to the ground support equipment, for attachment of the multiple payload set to the dispenser body. The ground support equipment is attached to the multiple payload set via the second attachment means to reinforce and secure the multiple payload set to enable transport and maneuverability of the multiple payload set without jeopardizing the non-self-supported connection structure.