Design and Analysis of a Novel Floating Docking Mechanism for On-Orbit Refueling

The docking mechanism is a key component for on-orbit refueling technology. In this paper, the design and analysis of novel floating berthing-based presented. Compared with traditional berthing docking, here high in success rate low impact, which accomplished by stretching out subassembly instead pulling back client spacecraft. However, also has two problems: initial deviations between spacecraft an additional force generated hard alloy pipe, both seriously affect operation. Thus, designed to have alignment abilities decrease as much possible. Based on principles above, we introduced spring pins helical pipe light, compact, simple mechanism. To further reduce force, proposed elliptical-helical analyzed its mechanical properties. Finally, simulations experiments were conducted validate results show that tolerance linear angular misalignment superior dynamic performance during docking.