A modular CubeSat concept for on-orbit assembly on the space station

Jiaolong Zhang, Jun Zhou

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

In order to complete the on-orbit assembly of microsatellites operated by astronauts on the space station and carry out on-orbit service and space tests, the modular CubeSat concept is proposed by combining the concept of standardized modular assembly with the CubeSat technology, and then the CubeSat building system is upgraded from board-level modular assembly to functional modular assembly. Firstly, on the basis of the functional independence and physical independence, the CubeSat is divided into several functional blocks having standard structure and interfaces, and the symmetrically arranged female-male-female standard interface is used to realize flexible assembly between adjacent blocks. Secondly, two kinds of mechanical docking interface are introduced and their advantages and disadvantages are analyzed in detail. Thirdly, the theoretical mechanical analysis, finite element calculation and prototype tests are carried out on the mechanical docking interface. The experimental results show that the precision and strength of the mechanical docking interface can meet the assembly requirements on the space station. The proposed modular CubeSat concept and standard mechanical docking interface are compatible with the traditional CubeSat structure, without occupying its internal space, and can realize the modular assembly of CubeSat.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of 2019 IEEE 4th Advanced Information Technology, Electronic and Automation Control Conference, IAEAC 2019
EditorsBing Xu, Kefen Mou
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages1195-1199
Number of pages5
ISBN (Electronic)9781728119076
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2019
Event4th IEEE Advanced Information Technology, Electronic and Automation Control Conference, IAEAC 2019 - Chengdu, China
Duration: 20 Dec 201922 Dec 2019

Publication series

NameProceedings of 2019 IEEE 4th Advanced Information Technology, Electronic and Automation Control Conference, IAEAC 2019

Conference

Conference4th IEEE Advanced Information Technology, Electronic and Automation Control Conference, IAEAC 2019
Country/TerritoryChina
CityChengdu
Period20/12/1922/12/19

Keywords

  • CubeSat
  • docking interface
  • modularization
  • on-orbit assembly
  • on-orbit service

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A modular CubeSat concept for on-orbit assembly on the space station'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this