In a landmark achievement, a collaborative effort between engineers from NASA Ames Research Center and KBR has yielded an autonomous robot system capable of constructing structures using specially designed lattice blocks. This breakthrough, documented in the esteemed journal Science Robotics, presents a cutting-edge solution for building shelters on celestial bodies like the moon or potential human exploration on other planets.
The autonomous construction system consists of three distinct robots, each with specialized functions contributing to the overall construction process. Two transport robots are tasked with retrieving lattice blocks from a predetermined location and ferrying them to the construction site. Meanwhile, a third robot operates within the emerging structure, connecting the lattice blocks with twist connectors, reminiscent of assembling Ikea furniture.
The lattice blocks themselves boast hollow structures with edges resembling coat hanger wire, creating a lightweight yet robust foundation for construction. The innovative twist connectors facilitate seamless assembly, enhancing the structural integrity of the constructed shelter or facility. The collaborative nature of the robotic team, akin to the coordinated efforts of an ant colony, ensures an efficient and autonomous construction process.
The system’s practical application extends to extraterrestrial exploration, where it could be deployed to celestial bodies in advance of human arrival. This approach ensures that essential structures, towers, or facilities are preconstructed, providing ready-to-use infrastructure upon astronaut arrival. While the current design necessitates astronauts manually applying a covering to the outer blocks, future iterations could incorporate additional automation, streamlining the entire construction process for enhanced efficiency.
The research team’s successful demonstration involved constructing several structures, including a shelter composed of 256 lattice blocks. The system exhibited impressive efficiency, completing the construction in approximately 4.2 continuous days. This achievement underscores the potential of autonomous robotic construction teams in shaping the future of space exploration and habitation. As humanity contemplates ventures beyond Earth, this innovative technology represents a crucial step towards establishing sustainable habitats on distant celestial bodies.
