Robotics for in-space manufacturing

Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has invested in space robotics capabilities to help develop in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM) capabilities.

“SwRI is developing solutions to leverage Earth-based industrial robotics with advanced automation and simulation so we can help clients develop new capabilities for the complex conditions of space,” says Meera Towler, an engineer who leads SwRI’s Space Robotics initiative.

Through ISAM, NASA and others envision agile vehicles deploying parts and materials into space for robotic manufacturing and assembly. An important enabling step for ISAM includes developing Earth- and lunar-based test beds and possibly research facilities on the moon.

SwRI’s space robotics research focuses on high-fidelity simulation, advanced perception, robotic manipulation in space, and extraterrestrial automated driving. SwRI’s new Space Robotics Center supports this research with an air-bearing table, motion capture system, a seven degree-of-freedom robot arm, test fixtures, and more.

Engineers developed software and modeling tools to help robots plan motion for complex, on-orbit conditions. Also in development is efficient low-power vision for lunar rovers or small aerial systems.

“We’re excited to share these R&D projects with the space community to help bridge the gap between today’s power-hungry, Earth-based industrial robots and the near-future ISAM ecosystem where advanced automation will help build the next generation of space infrastructure,” says Dr. Steve Dellenback, vice president of SwRI’s Intelligent Systems Division, which develops software, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and systems engineering solutions.

Southwest Research Institute