Phys.org November 7, 2024
Key requirements for next-generation space manipulators include dexterity, modularity, redundancy, workspace enhancement, and autonomous mobility. Researchers in the UK addressed these issues with a novel seven-degrees-of-freedom dexterous End-Over-End Walking Robot (E-Walker) for future In-Space Assembly and Manufacturing missions. They considered the in-situ robotic assembly of the primary mirror of a 25 m Large Aperture Space Telescope (LAST). Comparing the power, time, control and motion planning complexities of eleven mission Concept of Operations (ConOps), the trade-off analysis shortlisted a potential mission scenario. The operational assessments of two potential mission ConOps were compared to estimate the time required for assembly. According to the researchers their study offered new insights into mission time requirements for these scenarios, shedding light on multi-robot collaborative task-sharing and practical applicability of the E-Walker in executing complex and high-value in-orbit assembly missions… read more.
Open Access TECHNICAL ARTICLE
Summary of mission scenarios Credit: Acta Astronautica, Volume 225, December 2024, Pages 1061-1071Â