Bionics design and dynamics analysis of space webs based on spider predation

A new bionic space debris removal device, inspired by the spider predation, is designed in this paper, which consists of flexible webs, central hub, traction mass and rotating mechanism. Firstly, the concept of bionic space debris removal and corresponding system design are described in detail. Secondly, the dynamic models of spin deployment and collision are derived and foumulated respectively. Thirdly, a finite element analysis is presented to simulate the dynamic characteristics of the spinning webs deployment process. In addition, a finite element model of the webs is developed for structural modal analysis. Finally, a number of collision simulation analysis are carried out using finite element method and propagation of small disturbances along the tether are demonstrated via numerical simulations. The simulation results effectively reflect that the motion characteristics of the large deformation and large displacement in the process of capturing the target. Furthermore, it show that the proposed novel bionic flexible web can meet design requirements for a space debris removal system. •Design of abionic space debris removal device based on the spider predation.•Modeling for the spinning deployment process and the collision process between target and webs.•Proof of structual modal of the flexible webs.•Demonstration of themotion characteristics of the large deformation and large displacement via finite element method.