Safe Persistent Operations with Cobots in Space (SPOCS)

SPOCS will change the nature of robotics in space by allowing not only operating robots in the presence of humans but actually allowing robots and humans to work collaboratively in the same space. This will increase task efficiency thereby minimizing astronaut labor and improve astronaut safety by avoiding repetitive tasks, heavy lifting, and fine dexterous movements. As a comparison to the state of the art, SPOCS will allow for a dramatic increase in the speed of completion of tasks in space (compared to ISS) and a significant reduction in the amount of labor in planning, training, simulating, and observing such robotic operations involving humans. In addition to its profound potential in space applications, similar benefits can be realized in terrestrial applications where the market is significantly larger yet no technology like SPOCS currently exists. Manual logistics tasks can be physically and mentally demanding. By delegating repetitive and physically strenuous tasks to collaborative robots (cobots), astronauts can focus on more complex and critical aspects of the mission, such as scientific research and operational decision making; however, delegation of manual logistics tasks does not negate the need for safe and effective human-robot interactions. While the astronauts perform mission critical tasks, the cobot must be aware of and plan around humans and other objects within its workspace. Furthermore, many logistics tasks, like large payload tending (e.g., fuel tanks), require human-robot collaboration to successfully complete the task. The developed technologies are enabling capabilities that support several core objectives of NASA’s mission in its Moon to Mars architecture. SPOCS is a step towards closing the Tier 2 technology gap ESDMD #0806 payload offloading, handling, and manipulation for surface assets from the Moon to Mars architecture.