Institute of Materials and Machine Mechanics
Topic
Design and Optimization of Laboratory Model Robotic Arm End-Effector for In-Orbit Contact Capacitor Discharge Stud (CCDS) Welding on Conductive and Non-Conductive Spacecraft Surfaces
PhD. program
Engineering technologies and materials
Year of admission
2024
Name of the supervisor
Ing. Naďa Beronská, PhD.
Contact:
Receiving school
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering STU
Annotation
As we venture deeper into the era of space exploration and the density of human-made objects in orbit increases, the imperative for a cyclic economy in space becomes ever more critical. This thesis is focused on the advancement of a technology that is pivotal for enabling sustainable operations in orbit: the design and optimization of a robotic arm end-effector for Contact Capacitor Discharge Stud (CCDS) Welding. This innovative end-effector is not only designed for welding conductive and non-conductive surfaces common to spacecraft but also introduces a versatile capability for manipulating space debris and creating universal interfaces for material joining. By equipping space missions with the ability to weld studs onto structures, this technology opens new avenues for repurposing debris and constructing modular assemblies in space. Such capabilities are essential for the establishment of a cyclic economy beyond Earth, where the principles of reuse, recycling, and resource optimization are critical for minimising space debris and reducing the reliance on Earth-based resources. This research aims to enhance our ability to perform in-orbit construction and repair, thereby contributing to the development of sustainable space infrastructure that supports the long-term presence and exploration of humanity in outer space. The research is supported by cooperation within the European Space Agency (ESA)