ENERGY STORAGE DEVICE OPTIMIZATION IN PERIPHERY-TYPE DOCKING ASSEMBLY

The paper considers selection of parameters of the spacecraft periphery-type docking assembly. The kinematic scheme of its docking mechanism is based on the Gough-Stewart platform. Constructive implementation of its linear elements in operation is called the rods, and the controlled element is called a docking ring. The docking mechanism is characterized by the ability to accumulate the kinetic energy of spacecraft approach rather than to dampen it. To achieve this, an energy storage device is placed into each rod and incorporates a non-linear spiral spring mechanism. The energy storage device absorbs the kinetic energy of spacecraft approach and prevents its return after latching. The spiral spring mechanism implements a predetermined rod compression diagram and provides the necessary docking resistance force for spacecraft approach. The paper presents a general view of the rod compression diagram and the restrictions imposed on it. The model of the rod compression diagram is given, which is characterized by the introduction of a variable spring rate coefficient, and the method for identification of parameters is described. The method uses the calculation of the minimum mass of the spring mechanism. The method of parameters selection for a nonlinear spiral spring mechanism is given with predetermined dimension restrictions. The proposed methods can be used in the energy storage device optimization of the periphery-type docking assembly.