Yuxing-3 commercial satellite 06 (also Xiyuan-0) successfully completed orbital testing of a flexible robotic arm, intended for complex manipulations in space. Such technologies belong to solutions, which will allow repair, to refuel and service the devices right in orbit.
The main achievement of the mission is the verification of the flexible manipulator in several modes. During the tests, the system performed software-controlled simulated refueling, remotely controlled simulated refueling, convergence and docking, as well as a power compliance control test, when the manipulator, based on the data of force sensors, performed precise movements such as drawing geometric figures. This should confirm the suitability of the technology for future orbital service operations.
The developers note, that the flexible arm is built according to the scheme of a hollow continuous flexible manipulator with a rear cable drive. Unlike rigid robotic arms, this design works better in narrow and difficult areas, less likely to damage the target on contact and potentially suitable for refueling, repair, replacing components and even working with space debris. The manipulator was created jointly by Sanyuan Aerospace and Shenzhen International Graduate School of Tsinghua University, and the satellite itself is called the first commercial Chinese device of this class.
The robotic arm looks like a non-rigid metal faucet, which can bend smoothly, rotate and pull up to the desired hatch or connector. Cameras and sensors help the system understand where the target is located, and a program or operator from Earth corrects the motion. Due to its flexibility, the manipulator does not hit the surface hard, and contacts her more gently, which is especially important when docking or working near vulnerable elements of the satellite.
Such robotic systems can significantly extend the life of satellites and scientific instruments: instead of launching a new spacecraft in the future, it will be possible to refuel an old one, adjust its orbit or even replace a separate node. This is especially important for space science, because orbital telescopes, scientific platforms and Earth observation satellites often fail not because of complete unusability, and due to running out of fuel or minor technical limitations. in addition, such manipulators can help assemble large structures in space and reduce the amount of debris in orbit.
Source: https://universemagazine.com