Modular Satellite Panel Docking Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional satellite technology requires custom-designed, large, and heavy electronics boxes that are difficult to integrate and connect, making series production unsuitable and time-consuming, with complex cable harnesses and inaccessible electrical interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A modular device support panel with standardized docking structures and connectors allows for quick mechanical and electrical attachment of prefabricated electronics boxes, forming a 'harness bus' that can be integrated in half a day, using ARINC connectors for standardized interfaces and efficient heat dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom-designed electronics boxes are used for each satellite project, then the electronics can be tailored to specific project requirements, but the integration time increases significantly and series production becomes unsuitable
Solution Approach 1:
The satellite electronics system is segmented into standardized, modular electronics boxes that can be independently designed, tested, and manufactured. Each box contains complete functional units with standardized interfaces, allowing parallel development and rapid assembly for different satellite projects without requiring complete custom design of entire systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized interfaces and mounting structures are designed to be universally compatible across different satellite projects. The same electronics box design can be adapted to multiple applications through configuration rather than redesign, enabling series production while maintaining project-specific functionality through modular assembly.
2Reliability
If conventional cable harnesses with multiple connector types are used, then electrical connections can be established, but the manual connection process becomes extremely time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate electrical connections are merged into a single integrated connector interface. The standardized electrical interface combines power, data, and control signals into one unified connection point, allowing all electrical connections to be established simultaneously through a single plugging action rather than manual connection of numerous individual connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrical connections are pre-configured and tested within the standardized electronics boxes before integration into the satellite. The connector interfaces are designed and validated in advance, so that during assembly, connections are made automatically without requiring manual routing or configuration of individual wires and connectors.
3Reliability
If electrical interfaces with multiple connectors are used, then comprehensive electrical connectivity is achieved, but the interfaces become difficult to access and connect
Solution Approach 1:
The complex internal wiring and multiple connectors are extracted and consolidated into a single accessible interface on the electronics box exterior. The standardized connector is positioned and designed for easy access during assembly operations, eliminating the need to access difficult-to-reach areas within the satellite structure for electrical connections.
4Quantity of substance
If large and heavy electronics boxes are used, then all necessary electronic assemblies can be accommodated, but crane assistance is required for integration
Solution Approach 1:
The electronics system is divided into modular boxes of manageable size and weight, each containing specific functional assemblies. This segmentation allows standard handling equipment to be used instead of heavy cranes, while still accommodating all necessary electronic components through modular configuration of multiple standardized boxes.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a satellite instrument panel with a plurality of electronic boxes (3) accommodating electrical and/or electronic assemblies, wherein the electronic boxes are electrically connected or connectable to one another, it is provided that the instrument panel (1; 12, 13, 14; 16, 17, 18) is provided with at least one docking structure (2; 2A, 2A', 2A"; 2B, 2b', 2B"); that the at least one docking structure (2; 2A, 2A', 2A"; 2B, 2b', 2B") and/or a base plate (10) of the instrument panel (1; 12, 13, 14; 16, 17, 18) has first mechanical connecting means (20, 21) for holding electronic boxes (3); that the at least one docking structure (2; 2A, 2A', 2A";2B, 2b', 2B") first electrical connecting means (22, 23, 24) for electrical connection with the electronic boxes (3) and that the electronic boxes (3) are provided with mechanical counter-connecting means (30, 31) and electrical counter-connecting means (32, 33, 34) in order to mechanically hold and electrically contact a respective electronic box (3) on the docking structure (2; 2A, 2A', 2A"; 2B, 2b', 2B") and/or the device carrier panel (1; 12, 13, 14; 16, 17, 18).