Remote servicing of space systemsSpace systems are difficult to maintain on orbit. The difficulty arises from the limited ability and availability of the astronaut work force in the hazardous space environment. Remote robotic manipulation can free the astronaut from the hazardous working environment while also increasing the work force. However, remote robotic servicing is not without its own set of problems and limitations, such as communication time delay and unstructured worksites. Tests and test equipment are described which are designed to increase the understanding of the remote servicing problems and to allow development of potential solutions. A half scale satellite mockup was developed for evaluating and improving upon the design of replaceable subsystems, such as batteries and electronic boxes. A servicer system, that includes a six degree of freedom PUMA 560 robot and interchangeable end effectors (tools), was developed to aid in driving out servicer design requirements. The results include the time delay impact on servicing timelines and requirements for the servicer system.
Document ID
19880020025
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Collins, S. L. (Boeing Aerospace Co. Huntsville, AL, United States)
Purves, R. B. (Boeing Aerospace Co. Huntsville, AL, United States)
Date Acquired
September 5, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 1988
Publication Information
Publication: NASA, Marshall Space Flight Center, Second Conference on Artificial Intelligence for Space Applications