2021/06/09 by Mohamed Khaled, Mohamed Shafik Khaled, Srivignesh Srinivasan +37
Computer Science · Engineering · Physics and Astronomy · #Applied Physics (physics.app-ph) #FOS: Computer and information sciences #FOS: Physical sciences #Planetary Science and Exploration #Robotics (cs.RO) #Spacecraft Design and Technology #Structural Analysis and Optimization #cs.RO #physics.app-ph
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2106.05874
17 pages
arxiv created 2021/06/09 · openalex publication_date 2021/06/09 · arxiv updated 2021/06/11 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
Drilling and Extraction Automated System (DREAMS) is a fully automated prototype-drilling rig that can drill, extract water and assess subsurface density profiles from simulated lunar and Martian subsurface ice. DREAMS system is developed by the Texas A&M drilling automation team and composed of four main components: 1- tensegrity rig structure, 2- drilling system, 3- water extracting and heating system, and 4- electronic hardware, controls, and machine algorithm. The vertical and rotational movements are controlled by using an Acme rod, stepper, and rotary motor. DREAMS is a unique system and different from other systems presented before in the NASA Rascal-Al competition because 1- It uses the tensegrity structure concept to decrease the system weight, improve mobility, and easier installation in space. 2- It cuts rock layers by using a short bit length connected to drill pipes. This drilling methodology is expected to drill hundreds and thousands of meters below the moon and Martian surfaces without any anticipated problems (not only 1 m.). 3- Drilling, heating, and extraction systems are integrated into one system that can work simultaneously or individually to save time and cost.