Due to the unique configuration of the stealth satellite,the spatial utilization of the carrying space is very low. The need of research on on-orbit assembly technology for stealth satellites is urgent. Based on the parameters and design requirements of in-orbit assembly for stealth satellites, the on-orbit assembly interface between stealth satellite modules is designed. In a microgravity environment where loads are not easily dissipated, excessive contact forces for on-orbit assembly affect the attitude stability of the spacecraft with the on-orbit assembly platform. Based on the geometric shapes of the components in contact during the assembly process, classify contact phases and calculate the Hertz contact force. Three feed paths are set, then the trend of the contact force magnitude and the location where the maximum contact force occurs for three paths are analyzed. The contact force experiment is carried out and results are compared with analyzed results. The correctness of the trend of the magnitude of the contact forces, the maximum contact forces and the location where the maximum contact forces occurs are verified.
Fan XY, Bi JF, Chu M. An improved Yolov7-tiny model for modular satellite component identification. Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Science and Technology 2025;5(3):2025014.
Hu HB, Zhang X, Liao WH, et al. Progress and prospect in satellite stealth technology. Journal of National University of Defense Technology 2021; 43(3):107-127 [Chinese].
Ma S, Feng X, Kong N, et al. Review and development prospect of space rendezvous and docking mechanism. Journal of Rocket Propulsion 2022;48(3):1-15 [Chinese].
Rembala R, Ower C. Robotic assembly and maintenance of future space stations based on the ISS mission operations experience. Acta Astronautica 2009;65(7-8): 912-920.
Liu S, Zhang EY, Xu ZB, et al. Design of docking interfaces for on-orbit assembly of large structures in space. Sensors 2024; 24(20):6534.
Nair MH, Rai MC, Poozhiyil M, et al. Robotic technologies for in-orbit assembly of a large aperture space telescope: A review. Advances in Space Research 2024;74(10):5118-5141.
Huang FB, Li Z, Huang LF, et al. Docking mechanism design and dynamic analysis for the GEO tumbling satellite. Assembly Automation 2019;39(3):432-444.
Medina A, Tomassini A, Suatoni M, et al. Towards a standardized grasping and refuelling on-orbit servicing for geo spacecraft. Acta Astronautica 2017;134: 1-10.
Shi C, Li WJ, Guo HW, et al. Research on on-orbit assembly unit and docking interface of large space structure. Journal of Mechanical Engineering 2022;58(01): 52-60[Chinese].
Zhao LL, Liu ZY, Zhao JD, et al. Design and verification of end-effector and adaptation interfaces for on-orbit construction of space robot. Journal of Mechanical Engineering 2024;60(3): 1-10[Chinese].
Underwood C, Pellegrino S, Lappas V J, et al. Using CubeSat/micro-satellite technology to demonstrate the Autonomous Assembly of a Reconfigurable Space Telescope. Acta Astronautica 2015;114: 112-122.
Yu Y, Wang RQ, Wang YP, at el. Contact force controlled robotic polishing for complex PMMA parts with an active end-effector. Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Science and Technology 2021; 1(4): 2021012.
Li WJ, Cheng DY, Liu XG, et al. On-orbit service (OOS) of spacecraft: A review of engineering developments. Progress in Aerospace Sciences 2019;108: 32-120.
Valentin L P. Contact mechanics and friction physical principles and application. Beijing: Tsinghua University Press; 2019. p. 47-49[Chinese].
Chen DX. Handbook of mechanical design. Beijing: Chemical Industry Press;2016. p. 1-7[Chinese].