Session
Weekday Poster Session 3
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
A dual-use docking mechanism that can provide soft dynamic coupling in space and a rigid connection for launch would provide significant benefit to launch cost and weight savings. PSI has developed the Toothed Cup-cone Launch-hardened Androgynous Docking (T-CLAD) mechanism as a solution. The T-CLAD mechanism in an androgynous docking mechanism capable of withstanding launch loads while simultaneously providing self-alignment docking capabilities for on-orbit servicing and refueling. The mechanism is nominally designed for half-ESPA-class satellites but can be sized up and down to different class satellites while keeping full capabilities. The system incorporates an alternating, toothed cup-cone interface and SepNuts to "launch harden" the system. Furthermore, this cup-cone interface provides a self-alignment system to improve engagement of on-orbit docking. With additional hard-dock latching systems, fuel ports, and electrical ports, the T-CLAD mechanism enables on-orbit servicing within the confines of a launch restraint system. The research covered in this paper presents the design work, concept of operations, mechanism capabilities, and initial testing of the T-CLAD mechanism. An overview of the concept of operations and the versatility of the mechanism for thruster and robotic arm driven docking will be discussed. Furthermore, the ISAM-related missions that the T-CLAD mechanism can be used for will be covered as related to future research and missions. The unique cup-cone interfaces were designed based on expected launch loads and the dynamics of on-orbit slewing and fuel transfer. An experimental prototype was designed and fabricated to validate the initial design work, and the experimental results will be presented along with future plans for development, testing, and integration into an operational system.
Launch Hardened Cup-Cone Docking Mechanism for Small-Sats
Utah State University, Logan, UT
A dual-use docking mechanism that can provide soft dynamic coupling in space and a rigid connection for launch would provide significant benefit to launch cost and weight savings. PSI has developed the Toothed Cup-cone Launch-hardened Androgynous Docking (T-CLAD) mechanism as a solution. The T-CLAD mechanism in an androgynous docking mechanism capable of withstanding launch loads while simultaneously providing self-alignment docking capabilities for on-orbit servicing and refueling. The mechanism is nominally designed for half-ESPA-class satellites but can be sized up and down to different class satellites while keeping full capabilities. The system incorporates an alternating, toothed cup-cone interface and SepNuts to "launch harden" the system. Furthermore, this cup-cone interface provides a self-alignment system to improve engagement of on-orbit docking. With additional hard-dock latching systems, fuel ports, and electrical ports, the T-CLAD mechanism enables on-orbit servicing within the confines of a launch restraint system. The research covered in this paper presents the design work, concept of operations, mechanism capabilities, and initial testing of the T-CLAD mechanism. An overview of the concept of operations and the versatility of the mechanism for thruster and robotic arm driven docking will be discussed. Furthermore, the ISAM-related missions that the T-CLAD mechanism can be used for will be covered as related to future research and missions. The unique cup-cone interfaces were designed based on expected launch loads and the dynamics of on-orbit slewing and fuel transfer. An experimental prototype was designed and fabricated to validate the initial design work, and the experimental results will be presented along with future plans for development, testing, and integration into an operational system.
