The Perfect Mate for Safe Fueling

About this technology

Overview

An umbilical" is a large device that transports power communications instrument readings and fluids such as propellants pressurization gasses and coolants from one source to another. Numerous launch vehicles planetary systems and rovers require umbilical "mating." This process is a driving factor for dependable and affordable space access. With future-generation space vehicles in mind NASA recently designed a smart automated method for quickly and reliably mating and demating electrical and fluid umbilical connectors. The new umbilical concept is expected to replace NASA's traditional umbilical systems that release at vehicle lift-off. The idea is to increase safety by automatically performing hazardous tasks thus reducing potential failure modes and the time and labor hours necessary to prepare for launch. Under a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract with Kennedy Space Center Rohwedder Inc. successfully commercialized the Smart Remote Umbilical Mating System (SRUMS) based on NASA's next-generation umbilical technology. SRUMS is one of the most advanced fueling systems available in today's market as it decreases the need for human intervention during potentially dangerous fueling operations. Applications include the individual and gang mating of launch vehicles as well as commercial aircraft."