#Japan #Shibuya #Space Quarters #DAIQ #Space Robot

Space Quarters' Breakthrough with DAIQ Robot System

Introduction

In a groundbreaking achievement, Space Quarters, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has successfully demonstrated the functionality of its DAIQ orbital assembly robot system using a ground model. The demonstration illustrates the feasibility of assembling and welding construction materials in space, and the company released a video showcasing this significant advancement. You can view the demonstration video here.

The Challenge of Large Space Structures

Traditionally, large structures intended for space have been assembled on Earth and launched as complete units within a rocket's fairing. However, this approach imposes size limitations, as the structural dimensions are restricted by the rocket's parameters. Additionally, these structures must endure intense acceleration and vibration during launch, making larger or more complex designs challenging.

DAIQ: A Revolutionary Assembly System

To address these limitations, Space Quarters has developed the DAIQ system, which allows for the transportation of raw materials to be assembled in orbit, bypassing size constraints altogether. The DAIQ system employs a unique approach where multiple specialized small robots cooperate to carry out the entire process of material retrieval, installation, and connection.

Once the materials are launched alongside satellites aboard a rocket, the DAIQ system autonomously constructs the large structures in space. The recently published demonstration video confirms that the core concept of DAIQ works effectively and showcases the robots' remarkable capabilities.

The Components of DAIQ

DAIQ comprises three main types of robots:

1. Tree: A hexagonal column robot responsible for retrieving construction materials. It consists of multiple shelf units and a mobile small arm, allowing it to efficiently manage the storage and retrieval of various panel shapes.
- Ensures high-density storage of panels within the rocket’s fairing.
- Capable of stable retrieval for panels with curves, employing an innovative extraction method.

2. Ant: A self-propelled robot that manages the transportation and temporary assembly of materials. Using rails affixed to the edges of the panels, multiple Ant robots cooperate to enhance their operational area and perform precise installations.
- Designed to extend its operational framework with newly placed materials.
- Capable of simultaneous positioning along multiple edges, this ensures flexibility and scalability in construction.

3. Spider: A space welding robot that incorporates energy-efficient electronic beam welding technology—an innovation by Space Quarters. This robot accurately adjusts the position of materials to a micron order using integrated functionalities.
- Capable of performing precise and strong joint connections while moving along the construction.
- Contains built-in fixture functionality that balances positional stability and precision.

The Vision for Space Infrastructure

DAIQ represents a transformative leap in space construction, facilitating processes that were previously unattainable. With this technology, Space Quarters envisions the establishment of crucial space infrastructure, including:
- High-precision antenna reflectors enabling direct communication between smartphones and geostationary satellites.
- Large space stations serving as hubs for human activities in space.
- Solar power systems for space data centers.

The mission is to expand humanity's presence in the cosmos through innovative infrastructure development. Space Quarters aims to commercialize this technology by 2031, with welding demonstrations planned for 2028 and orbital construction tests scheduled for 2029.

About Space Quarters

Founded in June 2022, Space Quarters is on a mission to harness innovative space construction technologies to broaden human potential and establish a living environment beyond Earth.
With a commitment to developing high-voltage electronic beam systems and robotic solutions for construction, Space Quarters is paving the way for future extraterrestrial infrastructure. Led by CEO Masahiro Onishi, the startup consists of a small team of 20 dedicated employees.

Company Locations

• - Tokyo Headquarters: 5-53-67 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo, Cosmos Aoyama South Cosmos 501
• - Kanagawa Lab: 7-7 Shin-Kawasaki, Saiwai-Ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, KBIC101
• - U.S. Base: 214 Homer Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301, USA

For more information, visit Space Quarters' website.

Media Contact

For inquiries, please reach out to:

• - Space Quarters Public Relations: [email protected]