Launch Hardened Cup-Cone Docking Mechanism

The United States Space Force is interested in a launch hardened docking mechanism that can provide on-orbit servicing and refueling while dually operating as a restraint interface that can survive launch loads. With the development of spacecraft capable of performing on-orbit servicing and refueling, a dual use docking mechanism and launch restraint mechanism offers significant weight, volume, and cost savings. PSI proposes to develop the Toothed Cup-cone Launch-hardened Androgynous Docking (T-CLAD) mechanism, an androgynous and launch-hardened docking mechanism capable of providing self-alignment docking capabilities to provide fuel, data, and power transfer. The system operates in two states: an initial launch-hardened state where a v-band clamp applies a compression preload on cup-cone interfaces to handle the launch environment, and a docking state where a latching mechanism couples with the cup-cone interfaces to self-align and hard dock two satellites. The androgynous design allows one interface design to be used on both docking structures. Additional to fuel and electrical ports, the system allows for docking in four rotational positions, enabling servicing capabilities between the satellites or structures.