frame, and may be divided into four basic groups: 1) connection with the docking mechanism; 2) connection by locks of the docking frame; 3) those with autonomous drives; 4) manual connection. Connectors of the first and second type are usually functionally and structurally closely linked with the docking mechanism and the mechanisms of the docking frame, their dimensions, course, strength, and other parameters are closely linked with the characteristics of the basic mechanisms. For example, two hydraulic connectors of the thermal regulation system for the docking device of the Soyuz- Salyut complex were aligned with guide rods and sockets. Connections of the third and fourth type are more autonomous; thus, in general they may not be included in the docking device; nonetheless, their strength and rigidity parameters, and accuracy of connection should be linked with the characteristics of the main structure. The hull of the docking assembly is equipped with other elements to execute additional functions, such as the hatch of the transition tunnel with mechanisms for opening and hermetization, the armature of the pressurization system, verification of hermeticity, and release of pressure, armature of the hydraulic circuits of the thermal regulation system, etc. It should be noted that the inclusion of a tunnel hatch in the docking device, although it complicates the construction, is usually efficient. The total mass and size of the construction is reduced, and its configuration is simplified. The hatch of the Apollo APDA had its own hull (see Table 2.1) which significantly increased the size and mass of the construction. 2.5.4. Base Dimensions of the Docking Device The basic dimensions determining the size of the docking device, the size of the basic elements, including the course of the docking mechanism buffer element is the diameter of the docking frame dm. Its value is mainly affected by three different factors: the diameter of the transition tunnel; the initial displacements during docking; and the durability and rigidity of the joint. Inside the frame of a “rod and cone” docking device is the receiving cone, the radius of which makes the values of the maximum initial lateral displacement Ar somewhat larger. For an internal placement of the ring with the guide protrusions
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