Spring-Loaded Locking Arms for Spacecraft Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for transferring objects between spacecraft in low gravity environments, such as during space missions, require precise docking, which is risky and challenging for autonomous systems, and can result in damage to the spacecraft.
Innovation Solution
A capture device with spring-loaded locking arms that can position and secure a vessel by radially moving to accommodate and retain it, using a cushion damper and cradle to absorb momentum and prevent escape, allowing for secure capture and transport without the need for docking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional docking methods are used to transfer objects between spacecraft, then precise alignment and secure connection are achieved, but the risk of damage to spacecraft and complexity of autonomous operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The capture device is divided into separate functional components: an upper housing with locking arms for capture, a lower housing with cradle for support, and a hinge for closing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing the risk of damage during transfer operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper housing includes a cushion damper positioned to contact the vessel before the lower housing closes. This cushioning element absorbs kinetic energy and prevents damage during the capture process, addressing the harmful factors before they can cause spacecraft damage.
2Reliability
If conventional docking methods are used to transfer objects between spacecraft, then secure connection is achieved, but the difficulty of autonomous operation and precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arms are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to dynamically adjust their position to accommodate the vessel. The arms can move radially inward to release and radially outward to engage, making the capture process more tolerant of positioning variations and easier to operate autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically urges the locking arms into the release position after capture, and the hinge automatically closes the lower housing against the upper housing. These self-actuating features reduce the need for complex autonomous control systems while maintaining reliable operation.
3Force
If rigid locking arms are used to secure the vessel, then strong retention force is achieved, but the ability to accommodate misalignment and reduce damage risk decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arms change their physical state from a rigid fixed position to a movable spring-loaded configuration. This parameter change allows the arms to flex and accommodate misalignment while maintaining sufficient retention force through the spring mechanism's elastic properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arms function as flexible mechanical elements that can bend and adjust their position. This flexibility allows them to accommodate misalignment between the capture device and vessel while still providing strong retention force when engaged.
4Volume of moving object
If the locking arms are positioned close together in relaxed configuration, then the device size is reduced, but the ability to accommodate larger vessels decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arms transition from a compact relaxed configuration to an expanded engaged configuration. In the relaxed state, the arms are positioned close together minimizing device volume. When a vessel is captured, the arms move radially outward to accommodate vessels of various sizes, providing adaptability without permanently increasing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arms can be positioned within the confines of the upper housing when not in use, creating a compact structure. When needed, they extend outward to accommodate the vessel, similar to how nested dolls can be compact when not in use but expand when needed.
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
Enables secure and damage-free transfer of objects between spacecraft in low or zero-gravity environments by facilitating the capture and retention of vessels with compliant locking arms, reducing the risk of damage and simplifying the transfer process, even in conditions of high kinetic energy and misalignment.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more locking arms can bend with respect to the upper housing. Each locking arm can include a first segment coupled to the upper housing, a second segment comprising the at least a portion that extends radially inwardly from the periphery and axially toward the cushion damper
Implementation Method 2
When the lower housing is closed against the upper housing, the cushion damper and the cradle both can be in contact with the vessel to secure the vessel with respect to the capture device
Data Source
AI summary
Transfer of objects between spacecraft can be achieved in a low gravity environment. A capture device can be part of a module that facilitates visualization of a vessel that approaches the capture device. The module can facilitate positioning of the capture device for reception of the vessel. The capture device can include spring-loaded locking arms that both allow receipt and prevent escape of the vessel. At least a portion of each locking arm can extend radially inwardly and axially toward a cushion damper of the capture device. The locking arms can move radially away from each other upon application of a force from the vessel that is axially toward the cushion damper. The locking arms can move radially toward each other upon application of a force from the vessel that is axially away from the cushion damper.