Invention:
The shape memory alloy reacts to changes in temperature by changing its initial shape into a predetermined (learnt) shape. This effect can be controlled by the system to perform a progressive envelopment of an intended target in a microgravity environment.
The system has no dependency on mechanical components. This avoids system complexity, reduces overall system mass/volume, and keeps power requirements at a minimum. Additionally, as the system only exerts small amounts of force on targets in microgravity, mishandling in the form of unwanted spinning or potential collisions is highly unlikely.
Background:
Tethers provide solutions to a variety of problems in space. For example, the Space Surveillance Network tracks over 27,000 pieces of orbital debris, but there are many more pieces too small to be tracked which still pose a threat to human and robotic spaceflight. Tethers offer an inexpensive and efficient solution while maintaining low chances of mishandling.
Additionally, there are 105 countries to date that have at least one satellite in space, and the number of man-made devices will only increase in the coming decades. These devices must currently hold propellant and a mechanism for dispersing it, but this can be replaced by tethers which will precisely reposition the devices in a variety of desirable methods. This concept has even been explored for repositioning the International Space Station.
Applications:
- In-orbit servicing
- Space debris handling
- Satellite repositioning
- Handling of objects as small as CubeSats
- Handling of objects as big as asteroids and space stations
Advantages:
- Minimal system adjustment
- Independence from mechanical parts
- Low chance of mishandling
