Challenges in Power Management and Distribution for Robotic Systems in Space

Modern space missions show an increasing demand for remote controllable robotic systems to perform assembly, service or manipulation tasks. All these robotic missions require a tailored and reliable power management and distribution solution. It has to ensure that the performance of the overall system is fulfilled with highest possible efficiency. Power supply and distribution solutions are discussed within this paper for the newly developed the Compliant Assistance and Exploration SpAce Robot (CAESAR) built by the DLR Robotics and Mechatronics Center. These solutions are based on the analysis of power supply systems used in heritage systems such as space robotic experiments, as well as medical and industrial robots. System requirements and applicable space mission requirements are taken into account in the decision process. The selection of the appropriate power supply and distribution system is a key decision regarding the reliable operation of the overall system. This decision also defines the required interface between the robotic arm and the satellite.