Effects of Space Debris Collision on 5-Bar Linkage Robot Operation in Satellites: Simulation Approach

One of the most common damages of satellites is occurred by collisions of space debris. The collision of the debris is unavoidable during the space operation; therefore, the study of physical effects in relation to the collision must be conducted in order to understand the consequences. This article focuses on the analysis of the predictability of a robot arm A 5-bar planar robot with PID controller, that works inside the satellite. The analysis is performed by a simulation approach. The relationship between satellite damage and the debris’ size and speed, which vary according to the altitude, is analyzed. Consequently, the designs of small satellites’ orbits can be improved by using this study. As a result, the final condition of an operational satellite structure against a collision of valuable space debris can be predicted. Due to the motion control, the robot’s maximum position error is xx cm. This study leads to future work where the design rules for reducing the effect of payload variability will be developed.