Self-Similar Modular Architectures for Reconfigurable Space Systems

Paper number

IAC-06-D1.4.03

Author

Dr. Afreen Siddiqi, Massachussets Institute of Technology (MIT), United States

Coauthor

Dr. Olivier de Weck, Massachussets Institute of Technology (MIT), United States

Year

2006

Abstract

Modular architectures have been increasingly favored for systems requiring some aspect of flexibility. A growing number of concepts, however, are being developed that have a specific kind of modular architecture in which the entire system is built of self-similar modules. In these systems each module or building block is identical (or very similar) either in external form, or both in form and function. The self-similarity allows for the highest degree of reconfigurability and is emerging to be a consistent choice for systems that need to fulfill multiple roles at different times, evolve easily to respond to new needs, and/or degrade gracefully over time. Since reconfigurability can allow for improving performance, efficiency, reliability, and flexibility of application, its manifestation through self-similar modular architecture for future space systems is studied in-depth in this paper. The systems analyzed in the study range from information processing (such as avionics [1]) to mass transportation/supporting systems (such as spacecraft). Several concept systems (and some prototypes) of sensors and avionics based on identical reconfigurable transistors or chips, and rovers [2] and spacecraft based on octahedral modules [3], truncated-octahedral modules [4], tetrahedral truss modules [2], and cylindrical modules are discussed. The self-similarity is both at the sub-system level and/or system level. In such architectures, the allocation of function to the modules needs to meet some fundamental requirements which leads both to benefits in terms of reconfigurability, but also potential issues of increased cost and complexity.
 

References :
[1] Chau, S. N., Sengupta, A et al. “Ultra Long-Life Spacecraft for Long Duration Space Exploration Missions”. 53rd International Astronautical Congress - The World Space Congress -2002, Houston, TX. IAC-02-U.2.05
[2] Clark, P.E and Rilee, M.L. “LARA: Near Term Reconfiguration Concepts and Components for Lunar Exploration and Exploitation” 55th International Astronautical Congress-2004, Vancouver, Canada.
[3] Miller, D. et al. “Self-assembling Wireless Autonomously Reconfigurable Modules”, presentation at Marshall Space Flight Center, April 2005.
[4] de Weck O.L., Nadir W.D., Wong J.G., Bounova G. and Coffee T.M., “Modular Structures for Manned Space Exploration: The Truncated Octahedron as a Building Block”, AIAA-2005-2764, 1st Space Exploration Conference : Continuing the Voyage of Discovery, 30 Jan - 1 Feb 2005, Orlando , Florida

Abstract document

IAC-06-D1.4.03.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-D1.4.03.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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