Fig. 22. Remote manipulator system in space. For example, future communications satellites are expected to utilize platforms with multiple antennas and functions (Fig. 21). Such satellites and other developing requirements, as well as the Solar Power Satellite, will require the development of the new space discipline of construction. There has been little or no experience to date in space construction. The currently planned Shuttle Program does include a “space crane” in the form of the remote manipulator (Fig. 22). This device, being funded and developed by the Canadian Government, is designed to deploy payloads from the Shuttle payload bay. Its general characteristics should make it capable of supporting construction activities. The total construction activity, however, will require a variety of tools and techniques. Consequently, a “Large Space System Technology Program” has been initiated to develop techniques for space construction (Fig. 23). These techniques include erection, deployment, and automated fabrication methods. Automated fabrication is believed to be a key requirement for a viable Solar Power Satellite program. Some laboratory work is underway to study such machines. Figure 24 presents a protype machine (left) made by the Grumman Aerospace Company which is capable of producing a lightweight aluminum beam and a device (right) for forming graphite composite beam caps developed by the General Dynamics Corporation. The graphite composite material requires the use of heaters and coolers as well as the roll-forming elements required in building the aluminum beam. In addition to the fundamental construction techniques, numerous other elements
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