Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Attitude control
Patent
1988-12-30
1989-08-29
Barefoot, Galen L.
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Attitude control
405188, 14 715, 2441372, B64G 164
Patent
active
048609757
ABSTRACT:
A docking mechanism for the docking of a space vehicle 11 to a space station 12 comprising a flexible tunnel frame structure which is deployable from the space station. The tunnel structure comprises a plurality of series connected frame sections 21, one end section of which is attached to the space station and the other end attached to a docking module 15 of a configuration adapted for docking in the payload bay of the space vehicle 11. The docking module is provided with trunnions 41, 42 adapted for latching engagement with latches 17 installed in the vehicle payload bay and with hatch means 44 connectable to a hatch of the crew cabin of the space vehicle. Each frame section 21 comprises a pair of spaced ring members 31a, 31b interconnected by actuator-attenuator devices 33 which are individually controllable by an automatic control means to impart relative movement of one ring member to the other in six degrees of freedom of motion. The control means includes computer logic responsive to sensor signals of range and attitude information, capture latch condition, structural loads, and actuator stroke for generating commands to the on-board flight control system and the individual actuator-attenuators to deploy the tunnel to effect a coupling with the space vehicle or to adjust the relative attitude of the space vehicle and space station after coupling. A tubular fluid-impervious liner, preferably fabric 51, is disposed through the frame sections 21 of a size sufficient to accommodate the passage of personnel and cargo.
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Edenborough Kevin L.
Schliesing John A.
Barefoot Galen L.
Fein Edward K.
Manning John R.
Schlorff Russell E.
The United States of America as represented by the Administrator
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