In Russia, created a multifunctional robot to repair the ISS
At the Central Research Institute of Robotics and technical cybernetics have created a robot designed to perform tasks in outer space. The device will be able to move on the surface of the ISS thanks to manipulators with magnetic grips, carry out installation / dismantling of equipment, carry cargo, and even participate in scientific experiments. According to current plans, the "mechanical assistant" will go to the station in 2022, immediately after the launch of the Scientific and Energy Module (NEM).
One of the main advantages of the robot is its versatility. Two manipulators, thanks to which the machine performs a variety of actions, use interchangeable tools located in a special compartment. By quickly changing nozzles, the device can work with electrical connectors, threaded connections, insulation, move objects weighing up to 200 kg (thanks to drives with high torque) and connect various equipment.
The Cosmorobot is able to move around the station’s surface in automatic mode or be controlled by remotes located in the ground-based flight control center and inside the station. The main objective of the device is to provide support for astronauts. In particular, the robot can perform part of the technological operations or carry out preliminary preparation of the workplace before people go into outer space. For orientation in space, the device uses a set of sensors and cameras. Moreover, the selected method of movement does not require any major changes in the stationary infrastructure of the station.
The battery capacity with which the device is equipped is sufficient for continuous 8-hour operation. Then the robot will be able to resume energy supply by connecting to one of two base points located on the ISS surface as part of this program.
It is worth noting that the "space robot" is designed on a modular basis, which will allow not only to quickly assemble it on board the ISS, but also to carry out its further modernization to expand the scope.
One of the main advantages of the robot is its versatility. Two manipulators, thanks to which the machine performs a variety of actions, use interchangeable tools located in a special compartment. By quickly changing nozzles, the device can work with electrical connectors, threaded connections, insulation, move objects weighing up to 200 kg (thanks to drives with high torque) and connect various equipment.
The Cosmorobot is able to move around the station’s surface in automatic mode or be controlled by remotes located in the ground-based flight control center and inside the station. The main objective of the device is to provide support for astronauts. In particular, the robot can perform part of the technological operations or carry out preliminary preparation of the workplace before people go into outer space. For orientation in space, the device uses a set of sensors and cameras. Moreover, the selected method of movement does not require any major changes in the stationary infrastructure of the station.
The battery capacity with which the device is equipped is sufficient for continuous 8-hour operation. Then the robot will be able to resume energy supply by connecting to one of two base points located on the ISS surface as part of this program.
It is worth noting that the "space robot" is designed on a modular basis, which will allow not only to quickly assemble it on board the ISS, but also to carry out its further modernization to expand the scope.
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