Scalable Self-Assembling Spacecraft / Satellite Structure System (S6)

Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)

Description

Scalable in-space assembly of large structures is critical to space exploration, but current technologies are slow. Past developments, including EVA based systems and humanoid robonauts, have been shown to lack scalability with current EVA rates and SOA humanoid robotics. This project is to develop a simplified scalable robotic structure assembly demonstration. Recent research has shown that reversibly assembled periodic lattices can exhibit desirable specific mechanical properties, indicating their suitability for aerospace applications. The goals of this project include development, prototyping, and demonstration of a functioning bench-top automated structure assembly system that packs into a small volume. The final structure can be automatically reconfigured to a large variety of shapes.

Benefits

The work can broadly benefit NASA Space Reliance and \xd2mass-less\xd3 exploration efforts, and has potential to lead to very large scale construction projects. The work can benefit existing efforts in other agencies, on infrastructure supply chain technology, as well as revolutionary increases in infrastructure supply chain efficiency, and rapid infrastructure response (i.e. disaster response) technology.

Details

Program	Center Innovation Fund: ARC CIF (ARC CIF)
Lead organization	Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA
Start date	2013-11-01
End date	2014-10-01

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Kenny K Cheung — kenny.k.cheung@nasa.gov

How to get involved

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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.