15. Topical Issues of Creation of Space Rocket Thermostatic System Mating Points

Annotation: The problem is defined of designing the space rocket low-pressure air thermostating systems joints. The basic requirements imposed to the joints from the side of space rocket and ground complex are determined and stated. For this purpose, the analysis of operating conditions and possible situations during rocket launches is made. Besides, the methodological principles based on problematic, systematic, and structuralfunctional approach were applied using the theoretical and empirical capabilities, attraction of general scientific and special investigation methods, as well as historical and logical methods. The list of topical issues is reflected for implementation in joint’s design. The ways are proposed to create the joints meeting the requirements imposed. As a result, it was ascertained that the joints can be made of simpler and at the same time failure-free design in the form of combined triune rubber hose fitted with a metal fixation/release unit installed on a sealing flange in a special groove. Of special note is the versatility of the proposed technical solution for use in any of the space launch systems known in the world’s practice. The article is concluded with following: the basic requirements have been formulated for ground complexes thermostating systems joints to ensure space rockets prelaunch processing and launch, in doing so, the topical problems were defined; the scientific principles were proposed to design the thermostating systems joints for comprehensive solution of the topical problems , including potential critical situations; the thermostating systems joints have been developed, manufactured and have successfully passed the ground development tests with simulation of the conditions maximally close to operating ones at static operating air pressures and in off-nominal situations.