Let's Connect

For bigger spacecraft capable of executing bigger missions, some of the assembly may be done in space. Your challenge is to design a simple approach that enables components to be assembled in space.

Hybride Docking System

Summary

The main idea of our project is combination of NASA Docking System (NASA DS) and Magnet-Based System for Docking of Miniature Spacecraft (MBSD) (on the picture). Soft capture system (SCS) of NASA DS consists of six electromechanical linear actuators , which are moving soft capture ring and connecting active and passive sides of NASA DS. We are offering to replace SCS of NASA DS by MBSD.

How We Addressed This Challenge

Our Docking System, instead of electromechanical actuators uses electromagnets on both sides of this system to attract (and/or repel) them. Alignment Guides and Rotational Alignment Guides provide accurate connection (rotational one also able to rotate connected “active side” around its axis). Ball-Lock Detents/Mechanism are not needed because we still use Hard capture system from NASA DS. Also Axial Access Port in our case must be wide enough for astronauts to pass. 


How We Developed This Project

Magnetic inside & Mechanical outside

How We Used Space Agency Data in This Project

Previously this technology was described for Miniature Spacecrafts (like small satellites), but we can apply it to bigger sizes. 

Project Demo

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ZOFAXatLO8YKrzEaNWFB0I9Gm1wBTHKuFXJsltAZFcw/edit#slide=id.p1

Data & Resources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Force_between_magnets#Force_between_two_cylindrical_magnets

https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics/8-02t-electricity-and-magnetism-spring-2005/labs/exp08.pdf

Tags
#hardware
Judging
This project was submitted for consideration during the Space Apps Judging process.