Dust Tolerant Joint for In-Space Assembly

Cornerstone Research Group (CRG) proposes the development of a dust tolerant joint to facilitate reliable payload reconfiguration and automated in-space construction in regolith inundated environments. CRG will demonstrate a lightweight, mechanically robust joint capable of securing structures while exposed to regolith particles of similar size to what are known in various space environments such as the lunar surface. This state-of-the-art dust tolerable joint leverages CRG’s shape memory polymer (SMP) reversible joining system, which facilitates self-alignment, low dexterity operation, capture and lock features, electrical isolation, and connectivity feedback if desired. Additionally, CRG’s dust tolerant reversible joint provides NASA with a scalable, modular joining capability that can be used with autonomous assembly systems. Leveraging CRG’s prior development work on shape memory polymer fastening systems and mechanical design expertise, the proposed R&D herein will provide NASA with a multifunctional dust tolerable reversible joint with technology readiness level (TRL) of 4 at the conclusion of the Phase I effort.

In-Space structural assembly and construction Moon to Mars Campaign Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) Rotary, linear, and static joints Manned and unmanned space vehicles Payload attachment and removal Satellites, solar arrays, and deployable structures

DoD and commercial satellite construction, expansion, refurbishment and In-Space test ranges (i.e. orbital outpost) Deployable solar arrays, antennas, and variable vibration damping structures Reusable launch vehicles and payload delivery systems Space transportation vehicles Remote terrestrial shelter construction

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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