Self-Aligning Space Fastener for Remote Orbital Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-space structures, such as satellites, face challenges in secure assembly and maintenance due to difficulties in remotely controlling and positioning components, and lack of reliable fastening systems for attaching structures and facilitating power, fluid, or system transfers.
Innovation Solution
A fastener system comprising a first and second connector with housings and connection members, where the second housing's recess guides the first housing into position, and an actuator ensures engagement of connection members for secure latching, providing self-alignment and secure electrical/mechanical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fastening mechanisms are used for in-space structures, then assembly and maintenance can be performed, but the components are difficult to control remotely and do not provide secure attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system performs self-alignment and self-latching automatically upon approach. The guided recess geometry causes the connectors to self-align as they approach each other, and the latching mechanism automatically engages when the connection members are properly positioned, eliminating the need for complex remote positioning control
Solution Approach 2:
The connector geometry is pre-configured with guided recesses and specific connection member arrangements that automatically guide alignment and engagement during the approach phase. This preliminary geometric configuration ensures that when connectors approach each other, they naturally align and engage without requiring active remote control adjustments
2Adaptability or versatility
If specialized components are added for power and fluid transfer, then system integration is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: mechanical attachment through connection members, electrical power transfer through conductive elements, and fluid transfer through sealed passages. This merging of functions into one unified connector reduces the number of separate components needed for system integration
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a multi-functional interface that simultaneously provides mechanical fastening, electrical connectivity, and fluid transfer capabilities. This universal design allows a single connector type to handle multiple system integration requirements, reducing overall system complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If precise handling and positioning systems are used, then assembly accuracy is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system achieves precise positioning through self-alignment mechanisms built into the connector geometry. The guided recess automatically orients the connection members correctly as connectors approach each other, eliminating the need for complex external positioning systems
Solution Approach 2:
The connector geometry is pre-configured with specific angles and dimensions that guide alignment during approach. This preliminary geometric setup ensures that connectors automatically achieve correct orientation and positioning through their own structural features, without requiring external positioning equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener system for use with in-space structures includes a first connector attachable to a first in-space structure, and a second connector attachable to a second in-space structure. The first connector includes a first housing and a first connection member. The second connector includes a second housing and a second connection member. The second housing has an inner surface defining a recess sized to receive the first housing. The inner surface of the second housing is shaped to guide the first housing into position for the at least first connection member to engage the at least one second connection member within the recess. The fastener system also includes an actuator configured to move one of the first connector or the second connector in to position to engage the other of the first connector or the second connector.