Energy accumulator device for a new peripheral docking mechanism

The new peripheral docking mechanism is intended for docking with the International Standard-compliant docking ports. The distinct feature of this docking mechanism is accumulation, rather than damping of the kinetic energy of the approaching spacecraft. Selected as the basis for the kinematic system of the docking mechanism was Gough -Stewart. Design implementation of each of its translational links is hereafter called a rod. It consists of a ball screw converter, a gearbox and an energy accumulator. The new energy accumulating device includes a spiral spring mechanism and a controllable overrunning clutch, which can be commanded to disable or enable spinning of the spring mechanism shaft. The spring mechanism implements a predetermined non-linear load-deformation curve through the use of a variable-width ribbon in its design. The controllable overrunning clutch consists of a ratchet mechanism, friction (safety) brake and a two-position electromagnetic actuator, which makes it possible to control the switching of the clutch modes with short pulses, ensuring low power consumption and the ability to implement the specified sequence.