Articles | Volume 17, issue 1
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-439-2026
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-439-2026
Research article
 | 
16 Apr 2026
Research article |  | 16 Apr 2026

A multi-segment serial–parallel spatial closed-chain capture mechanism based on bionic principles

Xingqi Yin, Xuemin Sun, Zhihong Chen, Xianhong Zhang, Ruiming Li, and Yanan Yao

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Cited articles

An, Q., Zhang, Y., Huang, X., Li, H., and Xia, X.: Impedance control in serial-parallel hybrid space robots for assembly operations, Acta Astronaut., 232, 316–329, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2025.03.016, 2025. 
Bigdeli, M., Srivastava, R., and Scaraggi, M.: Mechanics of Space Debris Removal: A Review, Aerospace, 12, 277, https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12040277, 2025. 
Fallahiarezoodar, N. and Zhu, Z. H.: Review of Autonomous Space Robotic Manipulators for On-Orbit Servicing and Active Debris Removal, Space: Science & Technology, 5, 0291, https://doi.org/10.34133/space.0291, 2025. 
Flores-Abad, A., Ma, O., Pham, K. D., and Ulrich, S.: A review of space robotics technologies for on-orbit servicing, Prog. Aerosp. Sci., 68, 1–26, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paerosci.2014.03.002, 2014. 
Forshaw, J. L., Aglietti, G. S., Navarathinam, N., Kadhem, H., Salmon, T., Pisseloup, A., Joffre, E., Chabot, T., Retat, I., Axthelm, R., Barraclough, S., Ratcliffe, A., Bernal, C., Chaumette, F., Pollini, A., and Steyn, W. H.: RemoveDEBRIS: An in-orbit active debris removal demonstration mission, Acta Astronaut., 127, 448–463, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2016.06.018, 2016. 
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Short summary
This study addresses the challenges of capturing failed spacecraft and uncooperative space debris. Based on bionic principles, we propose a multi‑segment serial–parallel spatial closed‑chain capture mechanism, which can extend, envelop, and fix targets with high stability. Simulations and prototype tests demonstrate that the design increases capture range and flexibility, providing a feasible solution for space debris removal and failed satellite recovery.
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