Session
Weekday Session 11: Advanced Technologies II
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
Cambrian Works has developed eTAP (electric, Thin Attachment Pad) based on the principle of Electroadhesion (EA) as a general attachment technology particularly suitable for the space environment. eTAP addresses multiple in-space applications such as docking, in-space assembly, transportation, refueling, and orbital debris removal. These objectives have received significant attention in recent years, with many new space companies and business models receiving large government contracts and private funding. In this paper, Cambrian Works demonstrates the feasibility of eTAP to support these various missions by 1) examining the quantitative attachment force levels achievable with common aerospace materials under laboratory conditions, and 2) demonstrating a docking and capture scenario using a linear axis air track (1D) and a two-axis air bearing table (2D) to simulate in-space approach and attachment to a target object under representative dynamic conditions.
Demonstrating New Attachment Technology for On-Orbit Docking
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Cambrian Works has developed eTAP (electric, Thin Attachment Pad) based on the principle of Electroadhesion (EA) as a general attachment technology particularly suitable for the space environment. eTAP addresses multiple in-space applications such as docking, in-space assembly, transportation, refueling, and orbital debris removal. These objectives have received significant attention in recent years, with many new space companies and business models receiving large government contracts and private funding. In this paper, Cambrian Works demonstrates the feasibility of eTAP to support these various missions by 1) examining the quantitative attachment force levels achievable with common aerospace materials under laboratory conditions, and 2) demonstrating a docking and capture scenario using a linear axis air track (1D) and a two-axis air bearing table (2D) to simulate in-space approach and attachment to a target object under representative dynamic conditions.
