Designing berthing mechanisms for international compatibilityThe paper examines the technological issues regarding common berthing interfaces for the Space Station Freedom and pressurized modules from U.S., European, and Japanese space programs. The development of the common berthing mechanism (CBM) is based on common requirements concerning specifications, launch environments, and the unique requirements of ESA's Man-Tended Free Flyer. The berthing mechanism is composed of an active and a passive half, a remote manipulator system, 4 capture-latch assemblies, 16 structural bolts, and a pressure gage to verify equalization. Extensive graphic and verbal descriptions of each element are presented emphasizing the capture-latch motion and powered-bolt operation. The support systems to complete the interface are listed, and the manufacturing requirements for consistent fabrication are discussed to ensure effective international development.
Document ID
19920029869
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Winch, John (Boeing Co., Missiles and Space Div., Huntsville AL, United States)
Gonzalez-Vallejo, Juan J. (Sener Ingenieria y Sistemas S.A., Madrid, Spain)