DEVELOPMENT:

We developed a special design (similar to Hose Band Clamp) for the addition of extra space in facilities under microgravity conditions (like the ISS). If the field of space exploration and experimentations under microgravity conditions increases the number of research facilities to be installed would also increase. The design we have developed helps in the addition of more space in a much efficient manner. Thus, reducing the cost and time of assembly of components and sections in space.

IMPORTANCE:

Development of such systems is very essential because of the challenges that astronauts face during every space walk task. Also, development of these systems improve the method of assembly of components in space and make them more efficient. These systems improve the facilities that function in an indirect manner and support their functioning.

WORKING:

It is basically works like the hose band clamp which holds the pipe very tight. Here we made unit's structure similar to the structure of the hose band clamp. The mouth of the room is clamped (first lock) tightly together by the help of solenoid actuators. When there is need of more space, the expansion unit can be used to expand the space and further through the following steps:

• The clamp is held together in place by solenoid actuators.
• Once the expansion unit arrives at the region of proximity near the facility it navigates and aligns itself to the unit and gets attached to it through the slot provided.
• Later the unit makes sure that the pressure in the expansion unit is stable and the conditions inside it are favorable.
• Then the solenoid valve is released and since one half of it has a flexible structure it starts expanding supported and assisted by actuators that straighten the curvature.
• Thus a larger space is obtained in the end.

AIM:

With this technique we aim to achieve more spacious facilities which can equip more number of lab equipment and other things in it.

AUTOMATED ASSEMBLY ASSISTANCE SYSTEM:

This system is basically a robot that has semi-autonomous capabilities and can perform tasks on the basis of a schedule. We have designed this robot in order to reduce the space walks taken by astronauts and also for maintenance tasks for the facility.