Robotic satellite refuelling tool

A valve tool for fuelling an unprepared or partially prepared client satellite which includes a fuel tank, a fuel fill-drain valve and a valve actuation nut on the fuel fill-drain valve used to open and close the fuel fill-drain valve and an access valve cap on the fuel fill-drain valve, and includes an oxidizer tank having an oxidizer fill-drain valve and a valve actuation nut on the oxidizer fill-drain valve used to open and close the oxidizer fill-drain valve and an access valve cap on the oxidizer fill-drain valve, said valve tool comprising;

• interchangeable socket modules, a first socket module for removing and replacing the access valve cap on the fuel fill-drain valve, a second socket module connected to a fuel fill-drain line for engaging the fuel fill-drain valve for coupling a fuel fill line to the fuel tank, a third socket module for engaging the access valve cap on the oxidizer fill-drain valve on the oxidizer tank, and a fourth socket module for engaging the oxidizer fill-drain valve for coupling an oxidizer fill line to the oxidizer tank,
• a housing with a support frame, a socket module holder mechanism mounted on said support frame configured to accept said interchangeable socket modules;
• a socket drive mechanism mounted on said support frame for actuating said first, second, third and fourth socket modules when seated in said socket module holder mechanism;
• a clamping mechanism mounted on said support frame to secure said valve tool to a reaction area on the fuel fill-drain valve and oxidizer fill-drain valve, said clamping mechanism being configured to localize torque generated by said valve tool for ensuring that any reaction torques from said socket drive mechanism are reacted locally to prevent damage to the fuel fill-drain valve and the oxidizer fill-drain valve;
• and
• a valve actuation mechanism mounted on said support frame to engage and actuate said valve actuation nut on the fuel fill-drain valve and oxidizer fill-drain valve.