Collision Detection within a Python Simulator of Space Debris Capture with Nets

Capture of launcher upper stage with a net.

Students will contribute to a Python-based simulator of space debris capture with nets, by adding target geometries and performing detection of collisions between the net and the targets. 

Project description

The capture of space debris via a net is one of the most promising methods for Active Debris Removal. However, technologies for conducting such missions still require extensive research through ground-based experiments and simulations before real-world deployment. The UB Space System Dynamics and Control Lab is in the process of developing a simulator for net-based debris removal missions using Python. Currently, said simulator only supports simple cylindrical debris as the target. To expand current capabilities, interested undergraduate students will add more target geometries to the simulator. Students will need to utilize their knowledge of coordinate transformation and linear algebra to modify the simulator code to perform collision detection for the target geometries of interest. As the primary contribution will be in the realm of collision detection (not contact dynamics), knowledge of physics and differential equations will be helpful but required. 

Project outcome

Students will get to apply their knowledge gained from classes such as (but not limited to) MTH309 (Linear Algebra) and MAE345 (Intermediate Dynamics) in an applied research-based setting. Students will also be able to practice and improve upon their knowledge of using Python for scientific computing. 

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment longer than a semester; 6-9 months
Start time Summer (May/June) 
In-person, remote, or hybrid? Hybrid Project 
Level of collaboration Individual student project 
Benefits Stipend 
Who is eligible

Juniors & Seniors:

Knowledge of Python required. MTH 309 (Linear Algebra) or equivalent required. MAE345 (Intermediate Dynamics) preferred. 

Project mentor

Eleonora Botta

Assistant Professor

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Phone: (716) 645-2802

Email: ebotta@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 
Start the Digital Badge

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

  •  Meeting with the supervising PhD student and faculty advisor
  • Reading articles by the UB Space System Dynamics and Control Lab relevant to the project
  • Reading articles on collision detection
  • Familiarizing themselves with the existing Python code for capture of targets with a net

Keywords

Python, Mechanical, Aerospace, MAE, space, spacecraft, dynamics, coding, Computer science, coding, dynamics, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering