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Scale Model of the Space Station Data Handling and Control System Constructing a Truss and Connecting at Least Prototype Components |
Privacy Statement and Copyright© 1997-2000 by Wheeling Jesuit University/NASA Classroom of the Future™. All rights reserved.
Photographs courtesy of Johnston Space Center.
The first design challenge introduces students to
calculating the
scale and dimensions for a model. Understanding these concepts is
critical to all the subsequent model-building activities.
Also known as concept modeling, this phase allows
students to compare
possible design options with their specific project idea. Outcomes include
a portfolio of drawings (printed and electronic) and a concept model
often made out of light-weight, manipulative materials like card,
foamed polystyrene, or clay.
As the name suggests, the block model is a solid
piece of material
with no inside working or moveable parts. Block models are used in
advertisements and brochures when the final project is not yet
complete.
The Robotics Systems of the International Space
Station (ISS) are
used in ISS assembly and maintenance, as well as Extravehicular
Activity (EVA) support and payload handling.
The Hab is a U.S. element that provides six-person
habitation
facilities, such as personal hygiene (better waste management, full
body shower), crew health care, and galley facilities (wardroom with
eating facilities, oven, drink dispenser, freezer/refrigerator).
Photovoltaic Modules (PVMs) are dedicated to
generating and storing
power. These modules or "power plants" provide two sources of
primary
power called power channels. During both insolation and eclipse, each
power channel provides a continuous supply of power for distribution
throughout ISS.
The Lab element provides equipment for research and
technology
development. It also houses all the necessary systems to support a
laboratory environment and control the U.S. Segment. The prototype
should be designed to incorporate at least one scientific experiment
adapted from the ISS payload.
The Crew Rescue Vehicle (CRV) provides the
emergency crew return
("lifeboat") function. Although the exact design is still TBD,
it will
be based on NASA's X-38. The X-38 will have a six-person return
capability, and therefore its presence (or the presence of a second
Soyuz) is a requirement for going with a six-person crew. The X-38 will
have a fully automated deorbit/landing mode, although the crew can
manually override landing site selections.
The three connecting nodes provide six docking
ports (four radial
and two axial) for the attachment of other modules. It also provides
external attachment points for the truss. as well as internal storage
and pressurized access between modules.
To aid crews and controllers in configuring the
systems and
preventing unwanted activities, the ISS has Station-level control
software divided into seven Station modes. The data handling and
control system identifies the Station mode, characteristics, and
example system configuration changes when transitioning into that
mode. The prototype should demonstrate how some data handling and
control functions are done automatically by the software and others
performed by the operator.
Built over numerous flights, the truss is a U.S.
element that
provides the ISS "backbone" and attachment points for modules,
payloads, and systems equipment. It also houses umbilicals, radiators,
external payloads, and batteries. The truss created for Earth-based
ISS models will have to provide support for a 1g gravity environment
which places different kinds of stresses and forces on element
connections and positioning.
Students build a Working Model of the Space Station
with one or more
actual working or moveable parts. All detailing on the outside of the
model is accurate, and it may contain special places that allow
inspection of the interior, and it may be taken apart or have the
capability to unfold. The working model should be designed for display
in a public location or for use within a classroom.