One of the key factors dictating the safety and durability of the proposed U.S. Space Station is the ability to repair structural damage while remaining in orbit. Consequently, studies are conducted to identify the engineering problems associated with accomplishing structural repairs on orbit, due to zero gravity environment and exposure to extreme temperature variations. There are predominant forms of structural failure, depending on the metallic or composite material involved. Aluminum is the primary metallic material used in space vehicle applications. Welding processes on aluminum alloy structures were tested, resulting in final selection of electron beam welding as the primary technique for metallic material repair in Space. Several composite structure repair processes were bench-tested to define their applicability to on-orbit EVA requirements: induction heating prevailed. One of the unique problems identified as inherent in the on-orbit repair process is that of debris containment. The Maintenance Work Station concept provides means to prevent module contamination from repair debris and ensure the creation of a facility for crew members to work easily in a microgravity environment. Different technologies were also examined for application to EVA repair activities, and the concept selected was a spring-loaded, collapsible, box-like Debris Containement and Collection Device with incorporated fold-down tool boards and handholes in the front panel.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Making on-orbit structural repairs to Space Station


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Publication date :

    1989-08-01



    Type of media :

    Miscellaneous


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




    Station to station car repairs

    Rice, H.R. | Engineering Index Backfile | 1926


    Station to station car repairs

    Rice, H.R. | Engineering Index Backfile | 1926


    Making engine repairs

    Engineering Index Backfile | 1911


    Space Station Orbit Selection

    DAVID E. DAVIN | AIAA | 1971


    Space station orbit maintenance

    KAPLAN, D. / JONES, R. | AIAA | 1983