Tethered Satellite Ejection Docking Mechanism With Repeatable Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ejection deployment mechanisms for tethered satellites are complex and rely on additional unlocking motors, which compromise system reliability.
Innovation Solution
A simplified ejection deployment and retrieval mechanism with a separation ejection docking assembly using a two-stage internal-external sliding connection and a spring-provided kinetic energy, featuring a locking mechanism with sawtooth-shaped guide grooves for repeatable unlocking and locking, eliminating the need for additional actuator motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an additional unlocking motor is mounted at the separation ejection assembly for unlocking, then the locking and unlocking functions are achieved, but the device complexity increases and system reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the additional unlocking motor from the separation ejection assembly, extracting the problematic component that caused complexity and reliability issues. The unlocking function is achieved through the spring-driven ejection mechanism itself, which naturally unlocks the locking claw during the ejection process without requiring separate actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The ejection mechanism is designed to automatically perform both locking and unlocking functions through the spring-driven motion. The locking claw engages automatically during assembly, and the same spring force that drives ejection also provides the unlocking action, eliminating the need for external motors or control systems.
2Reliability
If a complex assembly with many components is used for ejection deployment and retrieval, then the locking and unlocking functions are achieved, but the overall system reliability is significantly affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (ejection, locking, and unlocking) into a single integrated mechanism. The spring-driven ejection assembly simultaneously performs the ejection motion and the locking/unlocking sequence through its mechanical design, reducing the number of separate components and improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation ejection assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that performs ejection, locking engagement, and unlocking operations. The same mechanical structure serves multiple purposes throughout the deployment and retrieval cycles, eliminating the need for dedicated motors or control assemblies for each function.
3Speed
If the sub-satellite is ejected at a predetermined velocity, then the deployment is achieved, but resistance is generated during retrieval and locking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking claw's engagement angle is optimized to minimize resistance during retrieval. The guide groove geometry allows the locking claw to smoothly transition between locked and unlocked states, reducing friction and mechanical resistance when the sub-satellite is retrieved at high velocity.
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 mechanism enables reliable, repeatable unlocking and locking of tethered satellites without additional motors, allowing autonomous ejection and retrieval experiments, enhancing system reliability and reducing resistance during separation and locking.
Implementation Method 1
the ejection sleeve adopts a two-stage internal-external sliding connection and provides initial kinetic energy to the sub-satellite via a spring
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses an ejection deployment and retrieval mechanism for a tethered satellite with repeatable unlocking and locking and a working method thereof, the present invention includes a separation ejection docking assembly and a sub-satellite; the separation ejection docking assembly includes an ejection sleeve, a locking mechanism, and a sub-satellite connector, the ejection sleeve adopts a two-stage internal-external sliding connection and provides initial kinetic energy to the sub-satellite by compressing a spring; the locking mechanism is mounted inside the ejection sleeve, one end of the sub-satellite connector is connected to the sub-satellite, and another end of the sub-satellite connector is slidably engaged with the locking mechanism to complete the locking/unlocking operations of the sub-satellite. The present invention can effectively reduce the complexity of the mechanism and improve the overall reliability of the mechanism without the additional control assembly to control the unlocking and locking of the mechanism.