Carbon Nanotube Multifunctional Tendons for Tensegrity Robots Project

The proposed activity is focused on the development of multifunctional tendons for use in tensegrity robots. This effort is a collaboration with NASA Ames to develop multifunctional tendons based upon carbon nanotube wires and yarns and demonstrates their use in actuation systems representative of those used in tensegrity robots. Tensegrity robots have attracted considerable attention for use in planetary exploration missions because they can be stowed into relatively small volumes before launch and are readily deployable upon landing. Because of their design and structure they can absorb significant impact shocks, such as those experienced during landing, and are well suited for use on extremely rough planetary terrains.

The proposed innovation will have broad potential impact in NASA space exploration and aeronautics applications. Carbon nanotube yarns and wires with the combination of high strength and electrical conductivity would enable the fabrication of multifunctional composites capable of acting as part of a vehicle structure and conducting electrical power and/or data signals. Use of these composites in aircraft and spacecraft would lead to significant weight reductions by eliminating or reducing the amount of heavy copper wiring that is used for data and power management.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — 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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