StarShipExodus2| Let's Connect

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.

PureConnect

Summary

A system for locating, aligning and interconnecting two spacecraft modules with two identical nodes. Any piece can be attached anywhere within the structure featuring the compatible (same) node design. This allows more flexible and efficient usage than having to have the correct male-female pair. One of the main enabling design features is offsetting the lasers and sensors in mirrored pairs. Thus matching with the mating other section. Likewise, the latches are also offset in a matching pattern to enable the latch parts to meet the appropriate other half of the connection. More information is available on our site at pureconnect.us

How We Addressed This Challenge



It is androgynous, so it is a better solution than having to have the correct male-female pair, and it has a (potentially) smaller rim than the current NDS. It includes for a laser alignment confirmation system. Mechanical Latches with adjustable tensioning, positioned to allow universal mating with same sized flanged apertures, are the final connecting engagement to ensure a good air tight seal at the flange when the correct latch tension is achieved.

How We Developed This Project

What inspired us to take on this challenge was a collective interest in space exploration and interstellar progress. We spent our first half a day brainstorming ideas for the design. our design was partially based on wooden train toys, particularly using repelling electromagnets to buffer collision and how LEGO toys mount the magnets on a frame, letting them spin to always connect correctly.


One of our team has also had access to the IDSS document (version C) and we figured that the application to larger inter section portals required a new approach. We tried to keep in mind the safety aspects of the challenge regarding the potential to have humans or other lifeforms onboard that would find inadvertent de-pressurisation rather uncomfortable. Hence our document mentions inter section sealant checking and a definite need for safe operating procedures regulating all docking and un-docking activity.


Jobs allocated within the team:

Paul produced CAD designs for the latch mechanics and integrated the project descriptive document.


Charlie managed some research on Gray and similar position encoding and has also been active in the Miro document.


Trevor produced the information on locating, identifying and sections, with the description of the overall assembly process.


Wendy performed some 3D printing a model to help with testing and demonstrating the latch design.


We produced a 3D printed model as a proof of concept and a detailed overview document.

How We Used Space Agency Data in This Project

We referenced the IDSS document and a conference paper on the IDSS as well as relying on the experience and knowledge of our team members, some of whom have worked with Ultra High Vacuum, Motion Control and Safety Procedures. Most of our team are widely read in a variety of science, technology and engineering topics to have been able to visualise solutions to the challenge as stated.

Project Demo
Project Code
Data & Resources
Tags
#let'sconnect #space #spaceship # #pureconnect
Judging
This project was submitted for consideration during the Space Apps Judging process.