Abstract:
A novel method has been proposed for implementing artificial gravity in the micro-gravity environment of space habitats (or other space environments). This will allow a number of human activities and services performed in an environment that resemble that on Earth, and additionally produce g-force of other environments (such as Moon, Mars, etc.) as required for certain experiments and/or services such as acclimating to a new g-force while in transit to another planetary body. Additionally, we presented a method and system to generate induced pseudo-gravity in selected modules leveraging magnetic elements both in wearables (6) and on selected surfaces (8, floors, seats, beds, etc.) of the module, allowing in Low Earth Orbit, normal gestures like sitting, standing-up or lying-in bed.
Abstract:
A factory for manufacturing useful products while orbiting is space uses concentrated solar energy, high vacuum, and the low temperatures available in a space environment. Gyroscopic forces from rotating machinery are carefully controlled. Liquids, gases, and solid minerals are separated from asteroid and lunar regolith resources.
Abstract:
Cell-based space systems with nested-ring structures that interlock and can change configuration to support a mission are provided. The cells may self-assemble into a larger structure to carry out a mission. Multiple rotatable rings may be included in a cell, with a payload/control section in the center. The rings may provide power and/or data to trams that move about the rails. Trams may interlock with other cells, carry sensors or other devices, etc. Cells may be stowed in a cell stack that is deployable. Such cell-based systems may have various applications in space, on Earth, other celestial bodies, and underwater.
Abstract:
Herein is disclosed a multifunctional tool with replaceable tool tips. The disclosed multifunctional tool may be used as an end-effector on a robotic arm in space. Each tool tip, when in the tool holder, is driven by a common motor. The same motor can also be used to control the orientation of the tool tip about an axis. The tool tips are replaceable in the tool holder by simple and robust means, resulting in a lighter and cheaper multifunctional tool. The tool tips can be variously adapted to perform a variety of functions, including cutting, grasping, drilling, driving, etc. Since the tool may be driven by only one actuator, and the single actuator may be used to drive both the tool and rotation of the tool, mass can be saved. Use of such a multifunctional tool also reduces overall system power requirements, and system complexity.
Abstract:
Herein is disclosed a propellant transfer system and method for refueling on-orbit spacecraft. The system and method are configured to allow for resupply of spacecraft configured to be fueled by either a bipropellant (oxidizer and fuel) or a monopropellant (typically hydrazine). The system and method are particularly suited for resupply of satellites not originally prepared for refueling as well but the system may also be used for as satellites specifically designed for refueling.
Abstract:
A flexible hinge including a first set of plies and a second set of plies, and a hinge area where the first set of plies and the second set of plies bend. A damping material is disposed between plies of the first set and the second set at least at the hinge area thereof to control the deployment of the hinge.
Abstract:
A structure (PET bottle, for example) (A) with folding lines, having a plurality of polygonal parts (P) and linear part-connectors for mutually connecting the outer sides of respective parts (P), with foldable linear folding lines (M, V) provided along the linear part-connectors, wherein the folding lines (M, V) consist of a plurality of ridged folding lines (M) ridge-folded at one surface side of the structure when viewed from the one surface side and more than one furrowed folding lines (V), with respective folding lines satisfying folding requirements. A novel folding method, wherein a wall-shaped structure is divided into polygonal planar parts (P) by many folding lines, and folding lines (M, V) at boundary portions between respective planar parts are mad foldable; and a novel folding line forming mold and a folding line forming method.
Abstract:
A method and lightweight apparatus (100) that provide linear actuation effected by the controlled inflation of a deployable tube (120) permits the deploying end (125) of the tube (120) to be guided out in a linear motion by a yoke (140) that constrains the inflated portion of the tube (120) immediately behind it. A means for imparting resistance to deployment facilitates a smooth actuation by controlling both the rate and the directionality of deployment, and by maintaining a uniform internal pressure in the tube being deployed. A frame assembly (180) at the deploying end (125) of the tube (120) can be configured to interface with a variety of components to be linearly deployed.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for creating three dimensional solid forms in metals, ceramics, organics or any combination thereof is made possible using a computer controlled system to create local environmental conditions that favor deposition from a material stream, precursor gas, weld process or plasma. In order to increase control and accuracy, the material can also be placed while the target area is monitored by a broadband poly-spectral imaging system, which provides dimensional, geometrical, chemical composition, stress and temperature feedback to the computer controlling the process. The local environmental conditions in the deposition area are controlled for magnetic, electric, and acoustic fields as well as for temperature, pressure, flow dynamics, and atmospheric composition. Complex materials can be "written" to match a computer's file of a three dimensional shape with virtually any material composition, surface finish, and geometrical complexity. Discrete components, such as microspheres, optical, electronic or any other components or materials that do not lend themselves to the deposition process, can be inserted and the shape written around them to make them an integral part of the final form. While the system can "write" a three dimensional shape it can also be used to "erase" some or all of a shape. The environmental conditions can also be changed so that material can be removed under computer control so that any corrections or final features can be created including such operations as final polishing or surface finishing. The digital files containing the three dimensional image, environmental and compositional data can be sent to remote locations where the data can be used to write a new three dimensional object.