Segmented Grappling Chain for Orbital Debris
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for grappling orbital debris are inadequate as they struggle to adapt to objects of arbitrary sizes and shapes, making it difficult to effectively grasp and manage orbital debris in space.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a chain of interconnected links with contact sensors and actuators that sequentially rotate to surround and grasp orbital debris, allowing the device to adapt to the shape of the target object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a system is designed to grasp objects of known size and shape, then grasping effectiveness is improved, but adaptability to arbitrary sizes and shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grappling device is divided into multiple interconnected links that can independently adjust their positions. Each link can be actuated separately to adapt to different object geometries, allowing the system to maintain reliable grasping across various sizes and shapes without requiring a completely redesigned system for each target object
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, fixed-configuration structure to a dynamic, adjustable configuration through the use of actuators that enable real-time modification of link positions. This dynamic capability allows the grappling device to adapt its shape and size to match the target object, resolving the contradiction between reliable grasping and adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a general-purpose grappling device is designed to be adaptive to arbitrary sizes and shapes, then adaptability is improved, but system complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into standardized modular links, the complexity of adaptability is distributed across multiple simple, identical components rather than requiring a single complex structure. Each link performs a simple function, but their coordinated action achieves complex adaptation to various object geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized links serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable adaptation to different object sizes, facilitate actuation through uniform interfaces, and allow scalable configuration. This universality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for specialized components for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A device for grappling orbital debris includes a chain of interconnected links, each having a corresponding contact sensor (for sensing contact with the orbital debris), and each connected to a subsequent link by an actuator (e.g., a worm drive assembly or the like). The actuators are configured to sequentially cause rotation of each link in the chain until the corresponding contact sensor indicates that the link has made contact with the orbital debris. Subsequently, the next link in the chain is rotated, and so on, until the chain of interconnected links substantially surrounds at least a portion of the orbital debris.