Figure 1.1. Equipment for approach and docking of Soyuz spacecraft, a. passive; b. active. 1.2. Requirements, Functions, and Operations Structure of the Docking Device The main task of any docking device is the mechanical linkage of spacecraft with the capability of multiple dockings and undockings. Requirements for this union (docking) may vary in accuracy, rigidity, durability, hermeticity, etc. The most widespread requirement is the formation of an accurate (the allowable displacement is about two orders of magnitude less than the diameter of the joint), durable, and rigid (on the same order as the durability and rigidity of other compartments of the spacecraft) joint. When two manned spacecraft are linked, there must usually be a hermetic connection, and the docking device should provide for the flight of the spacecraft while docked, after which they should undock. In addition to the three basic functions (docking, maintenance of docked state, and undocking), the docking device can carry out additional functions. The docking device should carry out its functions in a given range of initial docking conditions, considering the work of the control systems of both spacecraft. Tn joint flight all calculated loads on the joint should be supported in space conditions for all possible schemes and conditions of flight. The docking device should carry out these functions after Earth preparation and injection into orbit. There are two basic requirements made on the docking device: high reliability (and crew safety in manned flight) and low mass. Other technical, usage, and economic factors are also important: compatibility and configuration for given
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