Team Titan 2099 developed several connecting mechanisms, mainly the coupler linking mechanism, slide and lock mechanism, shape match mechanism and laser alignment system to facilitate in-space assembly and docking procedures. This is important as a fully autonomous assembly of large modular orbital structures have been identified as one of the key challenges for humanity’s expedition in space.

The Coupler Linking Mechanism operates on the principle of mechanical linkage whereby both modules are connected together through force. This is intended for the in-space assembly of large modular structures as well as for docking purposes. One half of the mechanism is built into each module. When forced together, the knuckle pushes against the rotary lever which compresses a spring until its maximum compression point. Then, due to the smooth surface parts, the knuckle slides over the first section of the rotary lever and into the slot, thus locking both modules together. To release the mechanism, the spring is released which rotates the lever in the opposite direction and frees the knuckle, allowing for free movement of the module. This release can be done either manually using the release lever and from the control deck or entirely autonomous.

Next, the Slide and Lock assembly method is enabled by creating ridges and grooves in the base structural material. This method is intended to be used in the assembly of colony habitats where it can work for both flat and curved components. Each component contains both one ridge and one groove. The ridge in one component slides and connects with the groove in another component. At the end of the connection, there is a cylindrical plug on one component which locks into a similarly shaped cut out in the other. Tight tolerances are required for this method to function.

On the other hand, the Shape Match assembly method functions by connecting two separate joints with coinciding shapes. This method is intended to be used for either the exterior or the interior rigid joints of structures. The edge of each component contains a male and a female connector along with a sliding protective cover. The male connector would be linked with the female connector and then the protective cover will be slid over the joint, locking them in place and preventing any movement. Again, tight tolerances are required for this assembly method to work.

Furthermore, the Laser Guided Alignment System. This system utilizes optical lasers, light sensors and a network of air jets to coordinate and either assemble or dock two modular structures together. During the procedure, the optical lasers will pulse out small light beams towards the light sensors. The light sensors will then relay the data to a program every few hundred milliseconds which will then use the information to align the two structures together by enabling the air jets located around the structures. Care is taken to ensure that the velocities of both structures are equal to prevent a collision. Once properly aligned, the system will direct both structures towards each other to be assembled. The system will finally check if both structures have been correctly assembled or docked together.

After all is said and done, Team Titan 2099 hopes that these several suggestions would inspire further designing, fabricating and testing of high-performance autonomous assembly systems for in-space assembly and docking. Ultimately, this should enable more sustainable space exploration activities.