USIS ARCHITECTURE


The need to connect one spacecraft to another whilst in outer space is self-evident. Additionally, the docking mechanisms need to androgynous, where mirror images of each other are able to connect successfully.

Enter the design of one Mark Hempsell, BSc, MSc, PhD, Badass. His design should be the absolute standard for outer space connectivity (Image A).

Image A: The Unpressurized Hempsell Docking Ring concept.

The Hempsell design uses similar Capture Rings and pedals as the design from QinetiQ Space nv to bring a misaligned spacecraft back into alignment (soft dock) (Image B). The Capture Ring then brings the two spacecraft together where locking pins are tripped, allowing for a more permanent attachment (hard dock).

Image B: Hempsell Unpressurized Hempsell Docking Ring with the Capture Ring extended

The Hempsell Docking Ring (HDR) specifications are all within USIS tolerances (Table 1).

BERTHING RING WIDTH
0.175
m
OUTER BERTHING RING
1.624
m
INNER BERTHING RING
1.600
m
OUTER CAPTURE RING
1.575
m
INNER CAPTURE RING
1.525
m
CAPTURE RING PROTRUSION
0.140
m
UNPRESSURIZED HDR MASS
48
kg
Table 1: Unpressurized Hempsell Docking Ring specifications

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USIS on Wikipedia

USIS Association

QinetiQ Space nv

Reaction Engines, Ltd.

Hempsell Astronautics

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