Satellite Locker Robotic Assembly in Microgravity
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of affordable on-demand capability for in-orbit servicing and assembly of satellites, particularly for government and commercial constellation tasks, as existing solutions are costly and rely on high-risk, high-latency methods.
Innovation Solution
A spacecraft system configured to deploy and assemble satellite parts into functional satellites in microgravity, using a robotic system with a housing, storage area, and controller to access, assemble, and deploy satellites, referred to as a 'satellite locker', capable of assembling and deploying satellites in outer space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional satellite assembly methods are used, then satellites can be assembled and deployed, but the process is costly, time-consuming, and has high latency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling satellite components in modular units on Earth before launch. These pre-assembled modules are then deployed to space and rapidly configured into operational satellites, eliminating the need for time-consuming assembly operations in orbit and reducing overall assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the satellite into modular components that can be independently assembled, tested, and stored on Earth. These segmented modules are then transported to space and quickly assembled using robotic systems, significantly improving assembly productivity while reducing the time required for in-orbit configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing satellite servicing solutions are implemented, then satellite tasks can be addressed, but the capability is limited and relies on high-cost legacy hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a multi-functional satellite assembly system that can handle multiple satellite types and configurations using the same core hardware platform. The robotic assembly system and modular component design enable a single system to service various satellite missions, increasing adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating standardized modular satellite components that can be replicated and reconfigured for different missions. These standardized modules serve as templates that can be copied and assembled into various satellite configurations, enhancing versatility while maintaining manageable system complexity through reuse of proven designs.
3Reliability
If manual satellite assembly procedures are used, then assembly can be performed, but the process has high risk and requires human intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing autonomous robotic systems that perform satellite assembly operations without human intervention. The system includes self-diagnostic capabilities, automated error detection and correction, and self-regulating control mechanisms that enhance assembly reliability while operating at high automation levels in the space environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through sensors and control systems that continuously monitor the assembly process, detect anomalies, and automatically adjust operations to maintain reliability. Real-time feedback from component status sensors enables the automated system to correct deviations and ensure proper assembly without human intervention, enhancing both reliability and automation level.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a spacecraft locker configured be deployed in outer space and configured to assemble satellites (e.g., CubeSats) within it and deploy them in outer space. In an embodiment, an unmanned spacecraft includes a housing configured to be deployed in a microgravity environment, the housing having an access point (e.g. a door), a storage area configured to store parts of a satellite, one or more robots movably positioned in the housing, and a controller configured to control at least one of the one or more robots to access parts from the storage area and to assemble the parts on an assembly platform of the housing. The controller may also control deployment of the assembled satellite through the door of the housing to a position in the microgravity environment.