Mobile mini-robots for space application

The concept of solar power from space (SPS) was proposed in 1968. The basic idea of this concept is the generation of emission-free solar energy by means of solar cells in outer space and the transmission of the energy to the earth using microwave or laser beams. Because of high launch costs the structure - consisting of solar cells as well as microwave transmitters should be light weight. Instead, of the conventional rigid structure a concept (Furoshiki Concept) of a large membrane or a mesh structure where the corners held by satellites was proposed. The next step to be realized is the transportation of solar panels and microwave transmitters on this mesh structure. This paper deals with the development of low cost mobile mini robots able to move and place the solar cells as well as transmitter on a mesh structure in outer space.