SMA Tether Capture Mechanism for Microgravity Debris Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing need for efficient methods to capture and deorbit space debris and perform in-orbit servicing in microgravity environments, as current technologies are inadequate for handling space junk and servicing tasks due to the complexity and mass of existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A shape memory alloy (SMA) tether system that utilizes a high-temperature SMA core enclosed by segments with heating and cooling devices, controlled by frequency-division multiplexing, to progressively envelop targets using a controllable deformation mechanism, minimizing mechanical components and power requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional capture systems are used to handle space debris in microgravity, then capture capability is achieved, but system complexity and mass increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical capture systems with a shape memory alloy (SMA) based system. The SMA tether uses thermal stimulation to induce phase transformation and shape change, eliminating the need for complex mechanical actuators, motors, and linkages. The core component is a simple rod that transforms shape through thermal energy, fundamentally substituting mechanical actuation with a smart material response.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state and shape of the SMA tether through temperature parameter changes. By heating the SMA material, it undergoes phase transformation from martensite to austenite, causing it to return to its pre-deformed shape and envelop the target. This parameter-based control (temperature) replaces complex mechanical control systems.
2Reliability
If conventional capture systems are used to handle space debris, then capture capability is achieved, but system mass increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical actuators, motors, and complex linkages with a lightweight shape memory alloy tether. The SMA material provides the necessary actuation force through phase transformation, eliminating the need for power-intensive mechanical systems and significantly reducing overall system mass.
Solution Approach 2:
The SMA tether is self-actuating through thermal stimulation. Once heated, the material automatically transforms shape and envelops the target without requiring external mechanical actuators or complex control mechanisms. This self-service capability eliminates the mass of external actuation systems.
3Reliability
If conventional capture systems are used, then capture capability is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces power-intensive mechanical actuators with a thermally-driven SMA system. The actuation energy is stored in the phase transformation of the material, which can be triggered by relatively low-power heating elements. This substitution dramatically reduces the continuous power consumption required for capture operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The SMA tether operates through periodic heating cycles rather than continuous power consumption. The heating elements activate the phase transformation only when needed, and the material maintains its shape without requiring continuous energy input. This periodic action pattern reduces average power consumption compared to continuously operating mechanical systems.
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 SMA tether system effectively captures targets in microgravity environments with minimal force, reducing system complexity, mass, and power consumption while avoiding mishandling, enabling efficient space debris handling and on-orbit servicing.
Implementation Method 1
An SMA is an alloy that can be deformed when cold but returns to its pre-deformed, i.e., trained, shape when heated
Implementation Method 2
one or more heating devices
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provide a controllably deformable tether to capture a target in a microgravity environment, the tether includes a core, wherein the core is a shape memory material; and a controllable node disposed along the length of the core, the controllable node including node including a node controller and a controllable heating source; wherein the node controller to receive a control signal and control the heating source to cause controllable deformation of the shape memory material in an area around the controllable node.