The Requirement for a Docking Standard Within a System of Systems Infrastructure
- Paper number
IAC-08.D3.3.4
- Author
Mr. Mark Hempsell, Reaction Engines Ltd., United Kingdom
- Year
2008
- Abstract
The Global Exploration Strategy agreed by 14 space agencies in May 2007 calls for the “identification of standards to promote interoperability”. If this aspiration is met, it will be establishing many of the system interfaces for space flight in perpetuity. The past history of standards set within terrestrial infrastructures shows many were set accidentally without any realisation that a standard was being established and the result severely constrains the future development of the activity it affects. The paper starts with a review of past terrestrial standards drawing conclusions on the process and highlighting the need for standards to be open architecture, public domain, and universal. Because it is the physical interface between spacecraft, the docking system is the key standard that will enable interoperability within the space infrastructure. The importance of establishing a well thought through docking standard can be seen from detailed consideration of ISS operations which graphically demonstrate the problems of having many incompatible docking systems. For example; all but one of the cargo supply systems cannot actually deliver the ISS standard racks, also there is an inability for any of the crew delivery systems to conduct rescue missions and NASA has concluded that none of the three existing ISS systems are suitable for its Project Constellation and is developing an incompatible fourth. This demonstrates in microcosm what problems a wider space infrastructure would have without a universally implemented docking standard. The paper explores several aspects of such a docking standard. The requirements are derived, not only from examination of crew exchange, habitat assembly and rescue operations but also in light of surface operations, artificial gravity generation, different cabin atmospheres, and public access, all possibilities not considered by any existing docking system. It is shown these new considerations mean no existing docking system can form the basis of a suitable standard. It is concluded that the docking system needs to be androgynous but with only one side needing to be active. The hatch size needs to be at least 0.8 m wide and 1.6 m high. It is also shown that the standard should have the flexibility to create versions that support both unpressurised and pressurised connections, and both permanent and temporary installations. How a technical standard can be defined to achieve this is demonstrated both in the abstract and through a feasibility design. The paper then explores the impact the docking system has on other potential standards within the infrastructure. For example physical objects such as logistic carrier bags and equipment racks need to pass though the hatch. Other areas that are affected are inter-system power, data and ECLSS consumables. It is shown the docking system is the starting point for most of the other space standards, and hence needs to be the first that is established.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-08.D3.3.4.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.