Segmented Ring Release Bolt Assembly for Resettable Spacecraft Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retaining and releasing devices for spacecraft require complex refurbishment after activation and do not allow for easy reset, and they lack the ability to perform multiple synchronized releases.
Innovation Solution
A retaining and releasing device for spacecraft featuring a release bolt, a locking device with a segmented ring and housing, an extraction system, and a release system with a rod, compression spring, and actuator, allowing for low voltage activation and reset without refurbishment, enabling synchronized multiple releases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional retaining and releasing devices are used, then the release function is performed, but complex refurbishment is required after activation and reset is not easy
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into discrete segments: the release bolt, the segmented ring with locking positions, and the actuator system. This segmentation allows the device to be reset by simply returning the release bolt to its initial position without requiring complex refurbishment of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a spring-loaded extraction system that automatically returns the release bolt to its locked position after actuation. The compression spring in the actuator system and the extraction spring both provide self-service functionality, enabling automatic reset without manual intervention or complex refurbishment procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional releasing mechanisms are used, then release is achieved, but multiple synchronized releases cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is designed with universal applicability - the same actuator design can be used across multiple retaining devices. The actuator responds to a common control signal and performs the same locking and releasing functions, enabling synchronized operation across multiple devices without requiring complex individual control systems for each.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple retaining devices can be connected to a common control system through the standardized actuator interface. The control system merges the operation of multiple actuators into a single coordinated action, enabling synchronized release of multiple retainers simultaneously while maintaining individual device functionality.
3Reliability
If high reliability release is required, then explosive or high-force mechanisms are used, but high shock and complexity are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces explosive or high-force mechanical release mechanisms with a controlled mechanical extraction system. The release bolt is extracted through a guided pathway with damping elements, substituting uncontrolled high-force release with a controlled, low-shock mechanical process that maintains reliability without introducing harmful shock factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction system incorporates damping elements and guided pathways that are pre-configured to cushion the release process. The spring-loaded extraction mechanism and the segmented ring design provide beforehand cushioning, ensuring that the release occurs smoothly without generating harmful shock or vibration, while still achieving reliable release.
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 device provides non-explosive, low-shock release with user-resettable functionality, eliminating the need for refurbishment and enabling synchronized multiple releases.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring, and an actuator such that the actuator is configured to lock the rod in a locked position of the retaining and releasing device, and the compression spring is arranged to abut the housing of the locking device and is also arranged around the rod to make the rod turn
Implementation Method 2
an extraction system for the release bolt, comprising a spring, an upper support, a lower support and a nut between the upper support and the lower support, the spring being guided by the upper support and the lower support
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining and releasing device for spaceships retains and releases a body to/from a support structure. A releasing bolt keeps the releasable body and the support structure connected in a position for locking the retaining and releasing device. A locking device for locking the releasing bolt in the support structure has a case and a segmented ring. The case is movable axially relative to the releasing bolt and includes an end with a through-slot. A releasing system includes an actuator, a rod having the same orientation as the releasing bolt, with a locking pin, cooperating with the slot, and a compression spring. The actuator locks the rod in a position for locking the retaining and releasing device. The compression spring is in contact with the case of the locking device and disposed around the rod to rotate the rod. The device includes a system for removing the releasing bolt.