Table of Contents

Mobile Base System - MBS Design

On May 30, 2002, as part of NASA Shuttle Mission STS-111, the Mobile Base System will belaunched and installed on the ISS. The aluminium base was designed and built by MD Robotics, the main contractor of Canadarm2.

Payload/Orbital Replacement Unit Accommodations

The Mobile Base System has another device known as a Payload and Orbit Replaceable Unit Accommodation (POA). It functions just like the Canadarm’s Latching End Effector but does not have the “sense of touch” of Canadarm2. The POA is able to provide electrical power and exchange data while grappling very large and heavy payloads orOrbit Replaceable Units (ORUs). ORUs are self-contained packages that can be swapped for new units when they wear out or fail on the Station.

POA Support Structure

The POA Support Structure supports and attaches the Payload and Orbit Replaceable Unit Accommodation (POA) to the MBS.

MBS Orbital Replacement Unit Base

 

The MBS is built, like all elements of the ISS, with a series of separate and interchangeable units called Orbital Replacement Units (ORU). In case of problemsthe separate and interchangeable ORU's can be replaced during spacewalks or eventually by the SPDM itself.

MBS Computer Units

The MBS is also equipped with two main computer units replaceable in orbit.

Video Distribution Units

Video distribution units replaceable in orbit.

Canadian Remote Power Control Module

Remote Power Control Module designed to be replaceable in orbit.

Power Data Grapple Fixture

The MBS has four power data grapple fixtures (PDGF), referred to as anchor points, which can serve as a base for operation of the Canadarm2 and the SPDM. They enable the MBS to provide power and data to the robots as well as the payloads that they may be supporting. The PDGFs also transfer computer commands and video signals initiated from the Robotic Work Station inside the ISS where the MSS is being operated.

Umbilical Mating Assembly

Provides power and data exchange to payloads such as scientific experiments.

MBS Common Attachment System

The MBS Common Attachment System consists of three payload alignment V-guides with ready-to-latch indicators; a powered claw to grip a special capture bar on payloads; a camera target for payload berthing; and an Umbilical Mating Assembly (UMA) which provides power and data exchange to payloads such as scientific experiments. A number of experiments will be positioned on the external structure of the Station, each payload held in devices similar to the MCAS.

MBS Common Attachment System Latch

A powered claw to grip a special capture bar on payloads.

Payload Alignment V-Guides with Ready-to-Latch Indicators

The MBS Common Attachment System includes three payload alignment V-guides with ready-to-latch indicators.

Camera/Light/Pan and Tilt Unit) Assembly

A colour camera that will be used to monitor the mating of the Mobile Base System to the Mobile Transporter. It will be placed on the POA mast to provide overall view of the Mobile Base System.