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DAME: planetary-prototype drilling automation
1NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California 94035, USA. brian.glass@nasa.gov
Astrobiology
|July 4, 2008
Summary
The Drilling Automation for Mars Exploration (DAME) project successfully tested adaptive drilling and fault recovery systems. These advancements enable autonomous, hands-off drilling operations for future Mars missions.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Robotics
- Geological Engineering
Background:
- Autonomous drilling systems are crucial for future planetary exploration missions.
- Previous drilling technologies required significant human oversight.
- Mars exploration necessitates robust systems capable of operating in extreme environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and test an automated drilling system for Mars exploration.
- To evaluate the performance of adaptive drilling and fault diagnosis software.
- To demonstrate dynamic recovery capabilities in challenging subsurface conditions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a hardened, evolved version of the Advanced Deep Drill.
- Developed and implemented diagnostic and executive software for autonomous operations.
- Conducted field testing campaigns in an Arctic analog site during the summer of 2006.
Main Results:
- Successfully demonstrated adaptively controlled drilling operations.
- Validated the downhole diagnosis of drilling faults.
- Showcased dynamic recovery capabilities for unexpected failures and drilling conditions.
Conclusions:
- The Drilling Automation for Mars Exploration (DAME) project successfully tested key automation technologies.
- The developed software and hardware are suitable for hands-off surface operations in stressful, extraterrestrial environments.
- The project provides a foundation for future autonomous drilling systems on Mars.
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