In situ resource utilization (ISRU) is of critical importance for lunar construction, due to the cost and complexity of transporting materials from Earth. While previous research has demonstrated the terrestrial feasibility of large-scale robotic construction with irregular boulders [1], the applicability of this method in a lunar setting is dependent on a number of factors that will be examined in this research project. By first determining the requirements and scale of lunar infrastructure (blast shields, landing pads, ramps, dwellings, etc.), and identifying the distribution of stones in the vicinity of potential landing and settlement sites [2], this work should result in an understanding of the mission planning requirements for building with lunar rock. The findings should include an understanding of promising site locations, estimated mission time and material collection area, and the related requirements for a robotic manipulator dedicated to this application.
References:
[1] https://www.research-collection.ethz.ch/handle/20.500.11850/444678
[2] https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-identifies-candidate-regions-for-landing-next-americans-on-moon/
In situ resource utilization (ISRU) is of critical importance for lunar construction, due to the cost and complexity of transporting materials from Earth. While previous research has demonstrated the terrestrial feasibility of large-scale robotic construction with irregular boulders [1], the applicability of this method in a lunar setting is dependent on a number of factors that will be examined in this research project. By first determining the requirements and scale of lunar infrastructure (blast shields, landing pads, ramps, dwellings, etc.), and identifying the distribution of stones in the vicinity of potential landing and settlement sites [2], this work should result in an understanding of the mission planning requirements for building with lunar rock. The findings should include an understanding of promising site locations, estimated mission time and material collection area, and the related requirements for a robotic manipulator dedicated to this application.
- Literature research
- Dimensioning of key infrastructure typologies and requirements
- Mapping of rock distributions in areas corresponding to potential landing and settlement sites
- Analysis of rock size distribution and geometry
- Correlate resource density with infrastructure requirements to assess requisite transport distance
- Outline requirements for robotic construction vehicle based on findings (payload capacity, daily travel, etc)
- Literature research - Dimensioning of key infrastructure typologies and requirements - Mapping of rock distributions in areas corresponding to potential landing and settlement sites - Analysis of rock size distribution and geometry - Correlate resource density with infrastructure requirements to assess requisite transport distance - Outline requirements for robotic construction vehicle based on findings (payload capacity, daily travel, etc)
- Excellent literature review
- CAD and GIS experience beneficial but not required
- Excellent literature review - CAD and GIS experience beneficial but not required
Please include your CV and a brief description of relevant experience in your email to:
rjohns@ethz.ch, hendrikk@ethz.ch, bickel@vaw.baug.ethz.ch
Please include your CV and a brief description of relevant experience in your email to: