Orbital Workshop Concept

Abstract

This is a concept for a system that can perform certain aspects of recycling/manufacturing/integration/servicing in zero-g & low-g space environments. The system consists of a slowly rotating inflatable tube that surrounds a system being worked on. This design captures debris by generating artificial gravity, thereby allowing “dirty” manufacturing/ recycling/ integration/ servicing techniques and enables loading/unloading of large systems. The system encapsulates the piece being worked on and uses an internal robotic arm with appropriate tools. This system is designed to complement the abilities of the Orbital Collector (see NTR 1660756036).