Hierarchical planning method for assembly sequences of large space truss structures

To automatically plan the assembly sequences of large space truss structures in the process of on-orbit assembly mission, a hierarchical planning method based on connection matrixes was presented. The inherent hierarchical nature of large space truss structures allows their assembly sequences to be obtained by hierarchical planning method. According to the definition of truss connection matrixes, basic principle of hierarchical planning, and analysis on three kinds of normal connection forms between geometry structure cells and structural volume element units, the low level planning methods and rules were formed and relevant connection matrixes were built up. According to the principle of truss structure geometry, by analyzing large space truss structures and founding connection matrixes of whole structures, the high level planning was completed. The normal space truss structures were illustrated to describe this method. The inherent geometry nature of large space truss structures was analyzed and the universality of this method was discussed.