Liquid sloshing experiments in space (Sloshrob)

Liquid sloshing in partially filled tanks is an extensive subject, with scientific, numerical and engineering interest. An important application is in vehicle dynamics, such as in space vehicles, gaining importance from foreseen space station activities. When liquid is not settled by a strong body force, as is in the case in many space...

Space automation and robotics activities past, present and future: Next steps for a robotics laboratory

An Automation and Robotics (A&R) laboratory is being developed at the National Aerospace Laboratory NLR. The laboratory is intended to be a testbed for harmonized ESA/Dutch operations technology. A number of activities related to (internal) A&R are reviewed. A reference scenario involving liquid sloshing experiments based on an external robot...

Arcade; an automation and robotics demonstrator project

Based on the national study Automation and Robotics for Microgravity Applications Demonstrator (ARMADE) a model-payload facility has been developed for ESA. This contribution to the Columbus Automation and Robotics JTestbed (CAT) at ESTEC was designated ARCADE, for ARMADE in CAT Demonstrator. The primary objectives were the development and...

Remote payload operations supported by automation and robotics: Ground-based simulation with hardware-in-the-loop

The specific demands and restrictions of remote payload operations in space require special attention during the development and operational phases. One of the important tools used in this process is simulation. The actual type of simulation depends on aspects like the complexity of the system, safety aspects and the development phase it is used...

Spacecraft attitude and orbit control systems testing

Contemporary AOCS are equipped with local Attitude Control Computers which provide sophisticated Attitude and Orbit Control functions, automatic Failure Detection and Isolation functions and extensive Telemetry and Telecommand handling functions. Generic models of the design, development and test life cycle approaches for such Intelligent AOCS...

Control architectures for space automation and robotics: A review of concepts

This report presents the results of an NLR study on control architectures for automation and robotics systems applied in space. Literature in this area was studied and subsequently a classification of concepts was made in order to get more insight in ideas, concepts and approaches for A&R control system architectures. Main attention was given to...