Docking Mechanism
Soft-Capture and Hard-Dock Mechanism Assembly
The soft-capture and hard-dock mechanism assembly is a structural interface that mechanically connects habitat expansion modules. During module approach, stainless steel alignment guides establish proper orientation while titanium soft-capture latches absorb kinetic energy. Hard-dock latches then pull mating flanges together against a forged load-bearing ring, forming a rigid joint that transfers structural loads across the interface. Lunar deployment requires this mechanism to operate entirely robotically without human assistance. The assembly must reliably actuate after enduring decades of sealed dormancy on the surface, while preserving its precision sealing surfaces against contamination from abrasive lunar dust.
Mechanical docking mechanism enabling attachment of expansion modules
Purpose
Mechanical docking mechanism enabling attachment of expansion modules
Context
Child of L2-STR-DOCK
Principles
- ▸Soft-capture latches absorb approach energy and align mating surfaces
- ▸Hard-dock latches pull mating flanges together creating structural joint
- ▸Alignment guides (pins and receptacles) ensure proper orientation during approach
- ▸Load-bearing structural connection transfers all loads through docked interface
Typical implementations
- ▸NASA Docking System (NDS) mechanism
- ▸ISS Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM)
- ▸iLIDS International Low Impact Docking System
Lunar considerations
- ▸Docking ports must survive decades of sealed dormancy then function on demand
- ▸Seal surfaces must be protected from dust contamination
- ▸Robotic operation of docking mechanism without human assistance
Specifications
Functional
| primary function | Mechanical docking mechanism enabling attachment of expansion modules |
Physical
| materials | Titanium latch mechanisms, Stainless steel alignment guides, Load-bearing ring forging |
Interfaces
Provides
- Structural connection for module docking
Requires
- Robotic assistance for berthing operations
Cite this entry
Lunar Ark Codex. "Docking Mechanism" (L3-STR-DOCK-MECH). Retrieved 10 September 2026, from https://lunarark.com/entry/L3-STR-DOCK-MECH
Licensed CC-BY-SA 4.0. You may reuse and adapt this entry with attribution, under the same licence.