Investigation of Non-Extravehicular Activity (Non-EVA) On-Orbit Maintenance Support Concepts for Orbiting Systems

摘要

Designing highly reliable, expendable satellites for long duration, on-orbit missions is becoming increasingly impractical. Incorporating a maintainability aspect is one way of facilitating the required level of probability of mission success. A hypothetical satellite constellation, Space Fox, is discussed in identifying the 'design to build' criteria, technical capabilities, and economic considerations necessary to facilitate NON-EVA on-orbit maintenance repair concepts. The acquisition cycle provides a vehicle for showing the relationship between the maintenance concept and maintenance plan, and developing a system to include NON-EVA on-orbit repair capabilities. Specific levels of concept design, technical limitations and economic trade-offs are identified. System optimization and prime equipment compatibility are addressed. NON-EVA on-orbit maintenance by a pivoting arm mechanism servicer, carried by the Teleoperator Manuevering System, is a technically and economically feasible way of supporting orbiting space assets. A recommendation to develop an implementation plan, reliability simulation and stimulate funding for further research and development of the design engineering and technical advances required is represented. (Author)