Solar Generator Tug Autonomous Docking Power Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spacecraft often face power limitations due to degraded power supplies, damaged solar cells, or increased power requirements, such as from additional crew members or high-power experiments, necessitating a solution to enhance power availability in space.
Innovation Solution
A solar generator tug with a frame, propulsion system, orienting system, and multiple solar cell arrays capable of generating significantly more power, controlled by a computer for autonomous operation and docking with other spacecraft, allowing for flexible power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If existing power supplies are used on spacecraft, then the spacecraft can operate with initial power requirements, but the power supply degrades over time and cannot meet increased power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is divided into two independent segments: the original spacecraft power system and the portable power system (solar generator tug). This allows the spacecraft to maintain its original power supply while receiving additional power from the portable system, avoiding degradation issues of the original system and enabling increased total power capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adaptable configuration. The solar generator tug can autonomously navigate to the spacecraft, dock, and establish power transfer connections as needed. The system can be deployed or retrieved based on power requirements, providing dynamic adaptability to changing power demands.
2Power
If solar cell arrays are increased in size to generate more power, then power generation capacity increases, but the device complexity and deployment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solar cell arrays are segmented into two groups: tug solar cell arrays that remain on the portable power system, and generator solar cell arrays that can be independently deployed away from the tug. This segmentation allows the generator arrays to be positioned optimally for power generation while keeping the tug compact and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator solar cell arrays are deployed in a different spatial dimension away from the tug body, extending outward to maximize surface area exposed to sunlight. This dimensional expansion allows for increased power generation capacity without proportionally increasing the tug's overall size or deployment complexity.
3Power
If a portable power system is introduced to provide additional power, then power availability increases, but the system complexity and docking requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The docking adapter is designed with universal functionality to accommodate different spacecraft types and docking scenarios. It can perform multiple functions including mechanical docking, electrical power transfer, and data communication, reducing the need for specialized docking systems for each mission type.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar generator tug is equipped with autonomous navigation and docking capabilities through its computer system. It can independently locate, approach, and dock with the spacecraft without requiring complex ground control intervention, simplifying the overall system operation despite the added docking functionality.
4Power
If generator solar cell arrays are deployed away from the tug, then power generation capacity increases, but the positioning and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The generator solar cell arrays are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing them to be moved and repositioned as needed. The positioning system enables the arrays to track the sun's movement and adjust their orientation for optimal power generation, while maintaining connection to the tug through flexible cables or telescopic booms.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer system monitors the position, orientation, and power generation output of the generator solar cell arrays in real-time. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the array positions and angles to maximize power generation efficiency, reducing the complexity of manual positioning control.
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 solar generator tug effectively provides increased power to spacecraft by deploying and controlling solar cell arrays, enabling reliable operation and adaptability for various space missions, including satellites and manned spacecraft.
Implementation Method 1
At least two tug solar cell arrays are disposed on the outer periphery of the frame for providing power to the solar generator tug. A plurality of generator solar cell arrays are disposed on opposite sides of the outer periphery of the frame
Implementation Method 2
A propulsion system comprising fuel, valves, and nozzles for propelling the tug
Implementation Method 3
An orienting system comprising fuel, valves, and nozzles for orienting the tug
Data Source
AI summary
A solar generator tug is disclosed. The tug can dock with spacecraft to provide power for the spacecraft. Further, the tug may dock with other specialty tugs to form a custom transport system.