THE CONNECTOR

Our project has developed the concept of a single spacecraft to perform assembly operations of space components in earth's orbit. 'The Connector' is the name of the spacecraft that performs assembly operations in space. This spacecraft is similar to any other spacecraft with control systems, navigation systems, attitude control system, propulsion system along with the assembly systems. 'The Connector' craft is capable of assembling larger spacecrafts for interplanetary missions, telescopes and observatories in earth's orbit, space stations, satellite constellations, etc. The spacecraft makes use of ultra-precise robotic arms capable of tool handling. It contains docking ports to dock with space stations and other larger space systems to carry out assembly of sub-components. The spacecraft consists of one major robotic arm and three minor robotic arms. The major robotic arm is a type of articulated robotic arm capable of performing pitch, yaw and roll. The terminal end of the robotic arm has dock ports where it can easily dock and move anywhere on a spacecraft(inspired by the ISS's Mobile Servicing System). The model below shows 'The Connector' with the major robotic arm.

The major robotic arm is connected to a circular slider that helps it rotate 360 degrees. The circular slider is connected to a linear slider that moves along the rails. This flexibility allows the smooth operation of assembly even at trickiest places. The arm can roll, pitch and yaw. The three minor robotic arms will be connected towards the upper part of the craft. The minor robotic arms are used to carry out assembly of delicate components such as telescope parts. The minor robotic arms can dock with the dock port of the major arm to perform smaller operations along greater distances. All of the arms are integrated with tool handling capability. These arms can perform ultra-precise nut-bolt operations, screwing operations, etc. All of these operations will be controlled by on-board computers and control systems. Whole process will be autonomous and no human intervention is necessary.

The subsystems of the spacecraft are electricity driven. The craft uses solar arrays to generate electricity. The assembly system depends on this energy source too.

'The Connector' has its own propulsion system(liquid propellant propulsion system). This enables the spacecraft to change orbits upon mission requirements. Different spacecrafts have to be assembled in different orbits based on the type of mission they carry out. Multiple space stations will be constructed in different orbits. The flexibility of The Connector to change the orbits will allow just a single space vehicle to carry out assembly operations in different orbits on various spacecrafts.

The Connector will be able to refuel in space by docking with space stations, from space station resupply missions. RCS thrusters are used for attitude control.

CLAMPING MECHANISM FOR DOCKING

Clamping Mechanism is a concept proposed in this project. Docking mechanism has been employed in space missions for over 50 years to connect spacecrafts. At present, the docking system of the ISS has proven to be an efficient method. But this mechanism is time consuming. There is a need for a docking mechanism that is faster and safer for future missions. Clamping Mechanism is a addresses this challenge.

Clamping Mechanism is carried out by The Connector spacecraft. Clamping involves joining two clamps over the dock ports of the two spacecrafts using the robotic arms of The Connector spaceship. The the hooks are engaged via turning valves by the robotic arms. The elastomeric seal on the clamp faces ensures air proof sealing, suitable for ensuring safety in the vacuum of space. The ports and locking mechanism are designed in such a way that it ensures maximum safety.

The model below shows the engagement of clamps on docking ports of the two spacecrafts.

The picture below shows the sectional view of the Clamping. This depicts how the actual connection will look. This mechanism ensures the perfect fit with max safety.

With The Connector and Clamping Mechanism of docking method, we hope to achieve easier assembly of components in space for future missions. These concepts aim to aid humans to become interplanetary, Interstellar and intergalactic species. Eventually, this will lead us to unravel the actual mysteries of this universe and reality.