It is expected that unmanned on-orbit satellite servicing will soon become state-of-the-art operations. Such tasks will require new robotic tools. In this context, this paper presents the development of a grasping tool for the handling of satellitic thermal blankets. The mechanical design of the tool is first addressed. Mainly, actuated jaws adapted to grasp and lift a thermal blanket attached with velcros are developed. Also, passive compliance is included in order to cope with a position controlled robotic arm and a rigid surface. Then, sensing issues are discussed and included in the design. These features are integrated in a prototype mainly built of plastic by rapid prototyping. Finally, experimental results show that the tool developed in this work is capable of effectively removing thermal blankets.
Optimal Path Planning and Static Obstacle Avoidance for a Dual Arm Manipulator Used in On-Orbit Satellite Servicing