Patent ID: 8979034
Filing Date: 2015-03-17
Classification: B25J,B64G

Abstract:
1. A device for non-cooperatively capturing an object, comprising: a boom, comprising: a capture head, coupled to the free end of the boom, comprising a non-cooperative capture device, wherein the non-cooperative capture device comprises one or more pads utilizing at least one of electrostatic attraction, gecko adhesion, Velcro, glue, low-temperature melt alloys and polymers, electromagnets, and magnets on the one or more pads to establish intimate contact between the capture head and the object, wherein the non-cooperative capture device does not incorporate a mechanical gripper; and a control apparatus, wherein the control apparatus controls the one or more boom deployers and capture head to move the capture head in proximity to the object, wherein the control apparatus determines if the capture head is close enough to the object to capture the object, wherein the control apparatus moves the capture head in closer proximity to the object if the control apparatus determines the capture head is not close enough to the object to capture the object, wherein the control apparatus minimizes relative velocity between the capture head and the object, capture, wherein the non-cooperative capture device makes initial contact with the object, wherein the control apparatus activates the non-cooperative capture device, wherein the non-cooperative capture device establishes intimate contact between the capture head and the object, wherein the device for non-cooperatively capturing an object arrests the object motion.