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Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
Our team proposes to develop an efficient, dust-tolerant coupler that will enable fluid transfer in the dusty environments of the Moon and Mars. The ability to successfully transfer critical fluids is a key element for several phases in STMD Go, Land, Live, Explore framework. Leveraging printable, functional patterned magnetics from Correlated Magnetics, the team will develop a new dust-tolerant coupler technology, as well as explore how patterned magnetics can enable efficient, expedient, and renewable options for fluid transfer. The design will be optimized for use with cryogenic liquids. With the Artemis Program in full swing and sights aimed towards future boots-on-Mars missions, dust tolerance will be a key factor in the transport and handling of fuel, water, and other various liquids that will need to reach their intended destination without contamination.
During this research and development effort, two separate technologies, patterned magnets and dust tolerance technologies, will be integrated into one solution. This will spawn new ideas and no doubt will push the individual technologies forward. The project has developed key performance parameters (KPPs) that will act as stretch goals that will drive the project efforts. The development will be decomposed into manageable phases that together achieve the desired state of the KPPs. Rapid prototyping efforts will be utilized in each phase to allow the project to develop the idea into a tangible product.
Although the team will employ some traditional project management techniques, we will also leverage newer methods such as an Agile mindset and Scrum framework. These tools, which have been used widely in the software industry as well as for other R&D efforts, will be tailored as appropriate to help the team achieve the objectives of this project.
Laboratory demonstration of a Lunar/Mars electrostatic dust tolerant cryogenic coupler using patterned magnets.
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