Summary

Description

<p>Conventional methods of manufacturing automation do not lend themselves to construction of large structures with internal features, especially if various other components (such as reinforcement, pipes, sensors, etc) are to be installed within the structure. This explains why the evolution of construction automation has been slow. While well known in parts manufacturing, a promising new automation approach in construction is layered fabrication, generally known as solid free form fabrication or additive manufacturing. However, most of the current layered fabrication methods are limited by their ability to deliver a wide variety of materials applicable to construction (especially if those materials are local, or in-situ). Additionally, they are severely constrained by the low rates of material deposition which makes them atttractive only for the fabrication of small industrial parts.</p><p>The ACME project will utilize additive construction expertise previously developed at MSFC and CCI, automation and robotics expertise from KSC, and fundamental construction knowledge developed by the USACE to develop and expand the knowledge base associated with automated construction of planetary surface structures using in-situ materials. Areas of emphasis will include characterization of typical Lunar and Martian regolith materials (using terrestrially-developed simulant materials), optimization of binder materials for each regolith, development of sub-scale followed by full-scale regolith beneficiation and processing, handling and transport and actual mobilitydeposition hardware, and development of automated cleaning processes.</p>