Rendezvous Capture Module for Shock-Free Spacecraft Docking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rendezvous and capture mechanisms in the rocket and space industry are complex and unstable, leading to low operational qualities.

Innovation Solution

A multifunctional rendezvous and capture module comprising a mechanical capture system with a mechanical capture system with a mechanical capture system, including a radar module, laser rangefinder, robot manipulators, and damping supports, integrated into a separate module for improved adaptability and accuracy in space operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a complex mechanical capture system with multiple moving parts is used, then the capture capability is improved, but the stability and operational reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapture capabilityVSAvoidoperational reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The capture system is divided into three independent branched connecting rod chains, each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the system to maintain capture capability while reducing the stability issues associated with a single complex mechanism, as each branch can be controlled and monitored separately

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting rod chains are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow them to adapt to different capture scenarios. The chains can change their configuration and stiffness characteristics during operation, enabling them to handle various target objects while maintaining operational reliability through controlled dynamic behavior

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If a rigid docking structure is used, then the docking strength is improved, but the ability to absorb impact and vibration deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedocking strengthVSAvoidimpact and vibration

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Damping supports are integrated into the docking structure to absorb impact and vibration before they can damage the docking connection. These supports are pre-positioned to provide cushioning during the docking process, protecting the rigid structure from harmful mechanical shocks while maintaining docking strength

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The docking structure combines rigid components for strength with damping elements for shock absorption. This composite approach creates a hybrid structure that simultaneously provides the docking strength needed for secure connection and the vibration absorption capability to protect against harmful mechanical effects

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Device complexity

If manual capture modules are used, then the system simplicity is improved, but the measurement precision and control accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem simplicityVSAvoidalignment accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

Manual capture modules are replaced with automated robot manipulators that use radar and laser rangefinder systems for positioning and alignment. This substitution eliminates manual operation while providing precise measurement and control capabilities, achieving both automation and high accuracy without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 integrated module enhances operational qualities by providing shock-free capture and docking, enabling accurate alignment and connection of spacecraft with reduced complexity and improved adaptability across various space platforms.

Implementation Method 1

a radar module

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadar: Radar

Implementation Method 2

a laser rangefinder

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLIDAR: LIDAR

Implementation Method 3

a locator with an active phased antenna array

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation direction control:

Implementation Method 4

a locator of an orthogonal radar interferometer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInterference: Interference

Implementation Method 5

damping supports

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDamping: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS12515824B2Multi-function rendezvous and capture module

Publication Date: 2026.01.06 KURS ORBITAL SRL

AI summary

The multi-functional rendezvous and capture module contains a mechanical capture system. The module includes a system of mutual measurements with a radar module, a technical vision system, a laser rangefinder containing a radar module and two independent locators, a locator with an active phased antenna array and a locator of a radar orthogonal interferometer, and a control unit; the mechanical capture system includes robot manipulators, a control unit, and damping supports.