Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are increasingly vital in space exploration, especially for deployable structures and robotics. A recent study highlights their potential in small, flexible robots designed for navigating planetary surfaces.
Researchers at the Inner Mongolia University of Technology have created an earthworm-like robot using SMA springs to control flexible joints. This design merges the on-off capabilities of SMA with mechanical gears and a flexible skeleton, enabling movement and shape recovery without complex control systems.
SMA springs offer several advantages for space robots, including their small size, lightweight nature, and suitability for confined spaces. Their flexibility allows for integration into robots designed for movement, and their performance improves in cold space environments. This innovative approach promises robust and efficient solutions for navigating challenging terrains on other planets, potentially revolutionizing small-scale robotics in future space missions.
NASA is also exploring SMA technology for rover tires, testing them on simulated Martian terrain in collaboration with Goodyear. These tires can withstand extreme deformation and return to their original shape, offering enhanced durability and mobility for space exploration vehicles.
Furthermore, a new titanium-aluminum-based superelastic alloy has been developed by researchers at Tohoku University. This lightweight and strong alloy functions across a broad temperature range, making it ideal for space missions and creating superelastic tires for lunar rovers.
These advancements demonstrate the growing importance of SMAs in various aspects of space exploration, from robotics to vehicle design, paving the way for more versatile and adaptable technologies.
Based on materials from: www.universetoday.com, www.scitechdaily.com, and NASA Technology Transfer Program.