Robotic Capture Interface for Spacecraft Using Ferromagnetic Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic capture systems for spacecraft are limited in their ability to capture and manipulate objects beyond direct human vision due to communication delays and require complex recognition software, and they struggle with handling objects of irregular shapes and sizes, especially in scenarios where direct visual feedback is not possible.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, low-cost, passive robotic capture interface with a matte ferromagnetic surface and high-contrast optical markings, compatible with various capture technologies, including magnetic, mechanical, and adhesion-based systems, allowing for secure attachment and manipulation of objects with irregular shapes and sizes, even when out of direct visual range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical grippers are used to capture objects, then capture force and reliability are improved, but the system can only handle objects of predictable size, shape, and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental capture mechanism from mechanical contact to magnetic field interaction. By using a ferromagnetic capture interface instead of mechanical grippers, the system can capture objects of any shape, size, or orientation while maintaining reliable capture force through magnetic attraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical gripper system with a magnetic capture system. The ferromagnetic interface allows magnetic forces to replace mechanical contact forces, enabling capture of irregularly shaped objects without requiring complex mechanical adaptation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex recognition software is used to locate and capture objects beyond direct vision, then capture capability is improved, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses high-contrast optical markings (black and white patterns) on the ferromagnetic capture interface that can be easily detected by optical sensors. This simple visual encoding system provides robust object localization without requiring complex recognition software, as the high contrast makes detection straightforward even from distance or at various angles.
3Ease of manufacture
If a standard capture interface is provided, then ease of manufacture and system compatibility are improved, but the interface must be fully consumed on reentry to ensure safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the ferromagnetic capture interface as a disposable component that is fully consumed during atmospheric reentry. The interface is made from materials (ferromagnetic sheet, aluminum plating, organic markings) that vaporize completely upon reentry, eliminating any safety risk from debris while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardization.
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 versatile capture, movement, and release of recovery objects, including spacecraft and satellites, by providing a standard interface that can be used with multiple capture technologies, ensuring safe operation and minimizing risks during atmospheric reentry.
Implementation Method 1
a matte ferromagnetic surface of flat disposition and geometric outline, configured to facilitate capture by the capture device
Implementation Method 2
applying one or more high contrast optical markings to a first side of the plated ferromagnetic surface
Data Source
AI summary
A capture interface is provided. The capture interface is configured to be rigidly affixed to an external surface of a recovery object and captured by a capture device. The capture interface includes a matte ferromagnetic surface of flat disposition and geometric outline, configured to facilitate capture by the capture device. The ferromagnetic surface includes a capture interface identifier.