Interchangeable Spacecraft Docking Port for Multi-Standard Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spacecraft docking systems are limited by the use of different mechanisms for different spacecraft and space structures, leading to complexity and inefficiency in connecting and transferring resources, cargo, and crew.
Innovation Solution
A single docking system with multiple compatible connecting elements, including an International Berthing and Docking Mechanism (IBDM) and Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM) configurations, allows a spacecraft to interface with various docking systems, enabling versatile and efficient connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different docking mechanisms are used for different spacecraft and space structures, then compatibility with various spacecraft is achieved, but device complexity and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal docking mechanism that can interface with multiple different spacecraft types (IBDM, CBM, and other configurations) through a single standardized port opening. The docking system includes interchangeable connecting elements that can be selected based on the target spacecraft type, eliminating the need for multiple separate docking mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining broad compatibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different docking mechanisms are installed on a spacecraft, then versatility in connecting is improved, but weight and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal docking mechanism replaces multiple separate docking mechanisms with a single standardized system. The spacecraft carries one docking mechanism with multiple interchangeable connecting elements rather than multiple separate mechanisms, significantly reducing weight while maintaining the ability to connect to various spacecraft types.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking system is segmented into modular interchangeable connecting elements that can be independently selected and attached to the universal docking mechanism. This segmentation allows the system to maintain versatility by having multiple connecting element options while avoiding the weight penalty of carrying complete separate docking mechanisms for each spacecraft type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different docking mechanisms are used, then compatibility with different spacecraft is achieved, but interference between mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal docking mechanism provides a single standardized interface that eliminates interference between multiple different docking mechanisms. By using one universal mechanism with interchangeable connecting elements rather than multiple separate mechanisms, the patent removes the physical and operational interference that would occur between different mechanism types while maintaining compatibility with various spacecraft.
Data Source
AI summary
A representative device includes a housing having a common port opening, a first connecting element carried by the housing and positioned to connect with a corresponding first spacecraft connecting structure having a first configuration, and a second connecting element carried by the housing and positioned to connect with a corresponding second spacecraft connecting structure having a second configuration different than the first configuration. At least one of the first and second connecting elements is moveable relative to the other between an operational position and a non-operational position, and each of the first and second connecting elements, when connected to the corresponding first or second spacecraft connecting structure, is positioned to allow transport through the common port opening.