Simulation Analysis and Experimental Verification of the Locking Torque of the Microgravity Platform of the Chinese Space Station

Abstract

The Microgravity Platform (MP) of the Chinese Space Station is locked and released by Lock-or-Release (L/R) mechanism on both sides. In order to ensure the safety and reliability of the MP under the vibration environment during the rocket launch, the L/R mechanism must output the appropriate locking torque value. Based on the structural characteristics of the Scientific Experiment Cabinet (SEC), this paper proposes a method of evaluating locking torque by combining theory with experiment, and the relationship between locking force and locking torque of L/R mechanism is proved that the locking force on both sides can reach 2000 N at 25 Nm driving torque. Finally, it is verified by vibration test that the locking torque obtained by this method can effectively guarantee the safety and reliability of the MP under vibration environment.