Spacecraft Effector Capture for Low-Debris Threat Neutralization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Space infrastructure, such as satellites and space stations, are vulnerable to threats from flying debris, military assets, and other disruptive sources, necessitating a means to protect and neutralize these threats effectively.
Innovation Solution
A spacecraft equipped with an effector, such as a net, harpoon, or clamping mechanism, is used to capture and manipulate target objects, rendering them harmless or altering their trajectories to prevent collision with space infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If kinetic impactors or explosive devices are used to counteract target objects, then the threat is neutralized, but additional space debris is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by capturing target objects (threats) and converting them into benign objects through controlled deceleration and orbital modification. Instead of destroying targets and creating debris, the system uses effectors to gently capture and redirect them into safe orbits, transforming harmful kinetic energy into controlled orbital mechanics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces effectors as intermediary devices between the spacecraft and target objects. These effectors serve as mediators that enable capture and control without direct contact or destructive interaction, using mechanisms like nets, harpoons, or clamps to gently manipulate targets and modify their trajectories without fragmentation.
2Productivity
If spacecraft directly collide with target objects to neutralize threats, then the counteraction is effective, but the risk of generating additional debris increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical collision with a more sophisticated mechanism involving effectors that use non-destructive forces. Instead of relying on kinetic impact, the system employs capture mechanisms that apply controlled forces to modify target orbits, substituting brute-force mechanics with precision orbital mechanics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of target objects by modifying their orbital velocity and trajectory through effector capture. By applying controlled delta-v through the effector connection, the system alters the target's orbital parameters to redirect it into a safe orbit, achieving neutralization without destruction.
3Reliability
If complex counteraction systems are deployed to protect space infrastructure, then protection effectiveness improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the protection system into modular components: a spacecraft platform, detachable effectors, and independent deployment mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high reliability through specialized subsystems while managing complexity through modularity and independent operation of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic deployment of effectors from the spacecraft, allowing the system to adapt to different target scenarios. The effectors can be deployed, positioned, and activated as needed, providing flexible protection without requiring the entire system to be permanently complex. The dynamic nature allows simplification when not in use.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (100) for counteracting a target object (500) in space, comprising at least one spacecraft (110) configured to approach the target object (500) based on target data, and an effector (120, 120', 120", 120‴, 120ʺʺ, 120‴ʺ) that is portable or carried by the spacecraft (110) and configured to capture the target object (500) from the spacecraft (110) or to couple it to the target object (500). The invention also relates to the use of such a device (100) and a system comprising such a device (100).