Re:The Low Earth Orbit Platforms [pdf]
by schiffern on Thursday December 01, 2022 @11:20PM
(#33826726)
Two notes:
1. Does orienting the long direction of the modules in-plane with the rotation provide enough moment of inertia on the intermediate axis to avoid the risk of oscillation? See [1][2][3].
Conceivably, one might repurpose the High Frontier physics engine to evaluate that type of stability. Model the geometry in the simulation except spin it sideways (cylinder axes parallel to spin axis), and see how long it takes to damp the oscillation as it falls into the lower energy state (cylinder axes perpendicular to spin axis).
One easy hack is to put solar arrays in-plane with the rotation, eg Vast.[4]
2. For the spin-up procedure, it seems easier to start by spinning up the connected modules, then spooling out the tether gradually. This avoids the "bounce" problem entirely. By controlling the rate of unspooling and thruster firing, a suitably gravity level can be maintained during deployment.
1. Does orienting the long direction of the modules in-plane with the rotation provide enough moment of inertia on the intermediate axis to avoid the risk of oscillation? See [1][2][3].
Conceivably, one might repurpose the High Frontier physics engine to evaluate that type of stability. Model the geometry in the simulation except spin it sideways (cylinder axes parallel to spin axis), and see how long it takes to damp the oscillation as it falls into the lower energy state (cylinder axes perpendicular to spin axis).
One easy hack is to put solar arrays in-plane with the rotation, eg Vast.[4]
2. For the spin-up procedure, it seems easier to start by spinning up the connected modules, then spooling out the tether gradually. This avoids the "bounce" problem entirely. By controlling the rate of unspooling and thruster firing, a suitably gravity level can be maintained during deployment.
Thanks, very interesting proposal!
[1] https://highfrontierblog.com/2014/07/30/rotational-dynamics/
[2] https://highfrontierblog.com/2014/08/12/invented-endcaps-are...
[3] https://highfrontierblog.com/2014/08/21/energy-loss-makes-co...
[4] https://www.vast.space/