Two-Axis Payload Pointing Mechanism Without HDRM Mass Penalty
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacecraft pointing systems are cumbersome, imprecise, and require additional mass and complex mechanisms like Hold Down Release Mechanisms (HDRMs), which increase mass and complexity, and are not suitable for the harsh conditions of space environments.
Innovation Solution
A two-axis pointing system with integrated rotary actuators, thermal control, and flexible piping, eliminating HDRMs, allowing for compact, reliable, and precise pointing of payloads like thrusters, antennas, or cameras, while withstanding space conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Hold Down Release Mechanisms (HDRMs) are used to secure equipment during launch, then equipment can be protected during transportation, but spacecraft mass increases and additional reliable release steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the HDRM component entirely from the system. The pointing mechanism is designed to be secured directly to the spacecraft structure without requiring separate hold-down release mechanisms, thereby eliminating the associated mass and complexity while maintaining security during launch through direct structural attachment
2Adaptability or versatility
If an array of thrusters is used for spacecraft propulsion, then movement in multiple directions is enabled, but spacecraft mass increases and movement precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable thruster assembly that can dynamically reposition itself to different angles using rotational degrees of freedom. This single movable thruster replaces multiple fixed thrusters by achieving multi-directional propulsion capability through movement, thereby reducing mass while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The single thruster assembly is designed to perform multiple propulsion functions by changing its orientation. By rotating to different positions, one thruster can replace the functionality of multiple thrusters pointed in different directions, achieving universal propulsion capability with reduced mass
3Measurement precision
If multiple fixed thrusters are used for propulsion, then spacecraft can move in particular directions, but movement precision is limited and spacecraft mass increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a dynamically movable thruster assembly with rotational joints that can be precisely positioned to specific angles. This dynamic positioning capability enables precise control of thrust direction, replacing the need for multiple fixed thrusters and improving movement precision while reducing system complexity
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 system reduces spacecraft mass, improves maneuverability, and enhances reliability by integrating thermal management and protection from micrometeoroids, enabling continuous re-pointing and adaptability in space.
Implementation Method 1
The connection between the pedestal and the support plate may be a spherical bearing or may be universal joint
Implementation Method 2
The connection between the pedestal and the support plate may be a spherical bearing or may be universal joint
Implementation Method 3
The thermal control system may include a radiator attached to the support plate. At least one surface of the support plate may act as a thermal radiator
Implementation Method 4
An anti-rotation bar may be movably connected to the support plate on one end and movably connected to the baseplate of the other end to control the movement of the support plate around a third rotational degree of freedom
Implementation Method 5
a first rotary actuator physically connected to the support plate and operable to move the support plate along a first of the rotational degrees of freedom, a second rotary actuator physically connected to the support plate and operable to move the support plate along a second of the rotational degrees of freedom
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for two-axis pointing of payloads are provided. A two-axis pointing system includes a pedestal, a support plate mounted to the pedestal by a connection which allows movement of the support plate in at least two rotational degrees of freedom, a payload mounted to the support plate, a first rotary actuator physically connected to the support plate and operable to move the support plate along a first of the rotational degrees of freedom, a second rotary actuator physically connected to the support plate and operable to move the support plate along a second of the rotational degrees of freedom, a baseplate, wherein the pedestal, the first rotary actuator, and the second rotary actuator are fixed to the baseplate, a plurality of harnesses for supplying at least one of power and telemetry for actuation of the system, and a thermal control system integrated with the support plate.