A 3D Test System for Studying Multi-Agent Proximity Operations for On-Orbit Servicing Non-Cooperative Objects
Abstract
This proposal is to request funding to acquire equipment for constructing a unique Hardware-Inthe-Loop (HIL) Simulation-based 3D Test System to support the current and future research regarding multi-agent proximity operations addressing On-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM) challenges. Built on an existing robotics lab facility, this new test system uses a robotic arm to generate a tumbling motion of a client satellite (mockup) at its tip, another robotic arm on a hexapod platform to mimic a space robot on a main servicing vehicle, and a set of drones to mimic deputy servicing vehicles. The proposed system will allow testing the team of servicing vehicles and the space robot while performing proximity operations around a continuously tumbling client which can be a known or unknown satellite, a space asset, or a piece of space junk. Such a 3D test of servicing a tumbling client cannot be done with flat or spherical air-bearing based test facilities because of their inability to produce full 3D rotational motion. This new test system, once developed and demonstrated, can be easily duplicated at any AFRL facility or an industrial facility if needed. The main research areas to be advanced by this new system are space vehicle dynamics and control, space robotics, sensing, and autonomy for close-distance (within 5 meters) operations around a client object, which have many applications interested by the US Space Force and US Air Force, such as detailed information gathering for situational awareness, space asset inspection, physical properties identification, closed-distance rendezvous, and final approach for docking or capturing. On the education side, the resulting new test system is capable of stimulating the student’s enthusiasm for space study and providing them with an excellent hands-on training tool to conduct design projects for aerospace courses or capstone projects in several disciplinary areas such as dynamics, sensing, guidance, navigation and control, and also in interdisciplinary areas such as robotics and systems engineering. Therefore, the proposed project will also enhance the education infrastructure and contribute to future workforce training for the aerospace and defense industries.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 29, 2024
- Source ID
- FA95502310056
Entities
People
- Ou Ma
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Cincinnati