Hierarchical assembly of self-replicating spacecraft using distributed mechanisms and actuation in digital materials
US11584637B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 23, 2018 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02P25/034
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system of flexural, actuating, and semiconducting elements of part-types necessary to assemble actuated robotic systems. These parts are joined with a common interface, interlocking with neighboring parts to form a regular lattice structure. Primary considerations for the design of the part interfaces include ease of assembly and the ability to transfer mechanical loads and electronic signals to neighboring parts. The parts are designed to be assembled vertically so structures can he built incrementally one part at a time. They can be easily fabricated at a range of length-scales using a variety of two-dimensional manufacturing processes. These processes include, for example, stamping and laminating, which enable high-throughput production. The simple mechanical interfaces between parts also enable disassembly allowing for reconfigurability and reuse. The interlocking nature of these assemblies allows loads to be distributed through many parallel load-paths.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.