Dynamic characteristics of space tethered nets under asynchronous deployment

In space debris capture missions, the relative positions between the launch device and the target often present asymmetric special scenarios. When the target debris is located laterally or diagonally below the launch device, traditional synchronous launch methods struggle to adapt due to their fixed symmetric trajectory. To address such special scenarios, this paper proposes a time-delayed asynchronous launch strategy based on sequential control. By progressively releasing the traction units and adjusting the net aperture orientation through an asymmetric force field, the effective coverage area of the net is enhanced. The dynamic model of the net-debris deployment and capture process is established using the lumped mass method and Hertz contact theory. Dynamic simulations are conducted using mathematical modeling tools like Matlab and finite element analysis software Abaqus, with simulation results compared to validate the correctness of the dynamic modeling. Additionally, the feasible domains of sequential launch methods and spatial net launch angles are explored, providing a programmable solution for debris removal under complex spatial relative poses.