MoonBot: Modular and On-Demand Reconfigurable Robot Toward Moon Base Construction

TL;DR

MoonBot is a modular, reconfigurable robot designed for lunar construction tasks, demonstrating adaptability and functionality within payload constraints through preliminary field tests simulating lunar infrastructure development.

Contribution

This paper introduces MoonBot, a novel modular robotic system optimized for lunar construction, with design insights and initial validation for future moon base deployment.

Findings

Successful demonstration of lunar infrastructure tasks

Insights into connector design for modular robots

Validation of reconfigurability in lunar-like conditions

Abstract

The allure of lunar surface exploration and development has recently captured widespread global attention. Robots have proved to be indispensable for exploring uncharted terrains, uncovering and leveraging local resources, and facilitating the construction of future human habitats. In this article, we introduce the modular and on-demand reconfigurable robot (MoonBot), a modular and reconfigurable robotic system engineered to maximize functionality while operating within the stringent mass constraints of lunar payloads and adapting to varying environmental conditions and task requirements. This article details the design and development of MoonBot and presents a preliminary field demonstration that validates the proof of concept through the execution of milestone tasks simulating the establishment of lunar infrastructure. These tasks include essential civil engineering operations, infrastructural component transportation and deployment, and assistive operations with inflatable modules. Furthermore, we systematically summarize the lessons learned during testing, focusing on the connector design and providing valuable insights for the advancement of modular robotic systems in future lunar missions.