The emergence of a space economy will require significant innovations in areas such as on-orbit servicing and construction. These essential space functions are dependent on rendezvous, docking and undocking capabilities. However, minimal technical research has been conducted resulting in marginal advancements. This technology is critically important to facilitate innovative mission concepts, such as in-space assembly of CubeSats to form large satellites, enabling robotic space stations, or improving the capabilities of sample return vehicles that rely on docking.
In this paper, we discuss the results of an experiment to study the benefit of geometrically modified cone and probe mating pairs for soft docking and alignment correction. The proposed experiment follows significant development of geometric mating pairs using 3D CAD software. The mating components will be studied to reveal how various geometric properties such as shape (circular, square, triangular, etc.) and angle of twist affect the ability to correct for misalignment and the force required to mate. Additionally, different space grade materials including combinations of metals, alloys, composites as well as metamaterials are being analyzed. The experiment will utilize a combination of force measurement sensors and linear actuation to determine the force required to reach the fully mated position, the misalignment correction will be determined visually with a scoring system that considers relative positions and orientation. We aim to take this further to space relevant environment conditions, to simulate the low gravity and frictionless conditions of space, the experiments will take place underwater and with marine grease coatings.
Upon conclusion, the experimental data is being compiled to develop a selection tool that changes the various parameters to offer the mating pair with optimized alignment correction, mating force, and usable internal space. The selection tool established from this experiment will be imperative to the success of new docking capabilities.
DESIGN AND EXPERIMENTATION OF GEOMETRIC MATING PAIRS FOR SMALL SPACECRAFT DOCKING
Proceedings of the 44th Annual American Astronautical Society Guidance, Navigation, and Control Conference, 2022 ; Kapitel : 91 ; 1645-1659
2024-01-01
15 pages
Aufsatz/Kapitel (Buch)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
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