The OOS-SIM (On-Orbit Servicing Simulator) is a simulator for robotic on-orbit servicing tasks such as maintenance, refuelling and assembly of satellites in Earth orbit. The feasibility of a robotic system for the removal of non-functional, tumbling target satellites from orbit – a task that falls under the category of active debris removal – is also being investigated. Two large industrial robots hold the servicing unit (or chaser satellite) and the target satellite and simulate their microgravity. A sensitive lightweight robot arm with gripper is mounted on the servicing unit. A solar simulator reproduces the harsh lighting conditions in orbit. The OOS-SIM was presented to the public for the first time in 2013.
DEXHAND
DEXHAND is a robotic hand developed for on-orbit servicing. Thanks to its precision and dexterity, it is an excellent tool for carrying out the complex tasks involved in inspecting and repairing fragile subcomponents. The DEXHAND was presented for the first time in 2012.
Capture Tool
The SMART-OLEV concept (2006, ESA) was designed to extend the lifetime of geostationary communications satellites running out of propellant or anomalies in the AOCS or propulsion subsystem. A servicing satellite would operate as an Orbit Life Extension Vehicle (OLEV) and utilise the legacy of the SMART-1 platform. As part of this activity, DLR provided a capture tool to be mounted on the OLEV to dock with the geostationary satellite to be serviced. The functional principle of the tool is to establish a rigid connection with the target satellite’s apogee engine nozzle. Once the capture tool is in the apogee engine nozzle, it maintains contact via a locking mechanism. The capture tool is suitable for a wide range of nozzle types and throat sizes. Extending the service life of satellites has become a reality in space since the MEV-1 (2019) and MEV-2 (2020) mission extension vehicle missions. Two Intelsat communication satellites were successfully serviced under the leadership of the US company Northrop Grumman.
Links:
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics
E-Mail contact-dlr@DLR.de
