GB/T 42178-2022 in English

Interpretation of GB/T 42178-2022, the National Standard of the People's Republic of China

This standard specifies in detail the interface requirements for cargo entry and exit of the space station airlock, covering two modes of cargo entry and exit, automatic and with astronauts, and is applicable to manned spacecraft such as the Mengtian Laboratory Module, the Wentian Laboratory Module and the Tianhe Core Module.

1. Background and significance of standard formulation

With the advancement of the construction of the Chinese space station, the demand for standardization of cargo interfaces is becoming increasingly urgent. This standard provides unified technical specifications to ensure the safe transfer of cargo in and out of the cabin, avoiding mission delays or failures due to incompatible interfaces.

2. Analysis of cargo entry and exit methods and technological evolution

3. Requirements for automatic cargo entry and exit interfaces

The mechanical interface design for automatic cargo entry and exit must meet the maximum allowable mass of 400kg and specific envelope dimensions (1200mm×1150mm×900mm), and adapt to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the cabin through heat insulation treatment.

4. Requirements for cargo entry and exit interfaces with astronauts

Cargo entering and exiting with astronauts must be equipped with universal handles or power handles outside the cabin to ensure operational safety and efficiency, and meet the size restrictions (no more than 700mm×500mm×600mm).

5. Implementation suggestions