Section 3.6 - Assembly and Construction

Assembly refers to putting together parts or component systems to make a functional complete device. Construction refers to permanent installations not intended to move often or ever and consisting of many devices and systems. These tasks typically consist of many simple steps in series.

Assembly Methods

Assembly methods can be organized by the type of operator and the type of connections are made between elements

Operator Types

Assembly methods can be categorized by the type of operator that performs the assembly:

• Manual Assembly - This is performed by humans using manual dexterity and strength. It can be assisted by tools and fixtures for leverage, speed, and positioning.
• Robotic Assembly - This is performed by robots either under human remote control or computer control.
• Automatic Assembly - This is where the devices to perform the assembly task are built into the components.

Construction Methods

Construction can be organized by analogy to Earth construction, with suitable modifications

Logistics

Delivering construction equipment and supplies to the construction site from other locations.

Orbital Tugs

When launching multiple components from Earth that need to be collected in one place for assembly, if the orbits are similar, then a single vehicle dedicated to the job is more efficient than including a propulsion and navigation system on each component payload . We call that vehicle an Orbital Tug. Besides propulsion, navigation, and means to grab the payloads, it needs the ability to periodically refuel. This can be done with occasional payloads being fuel tanks, which the Tug attaches to itself as needed. In order not to be left stranded, it should have at least two tank locations, and install a fresh tank while the second one still has some fuel left. If you have more than one Tug, they should be designed to grab each other for heavier cargos needing more total propulsion, or in case one stops working and needs to be returned for repair.

Materials Handling

Positioning items within the construction site to the point of use.

Docking

Mechanical Docking Systems

Deployment

Unpacking a component shipped in a compact state to an operating configuration.

Site Work

Where you are doing construction on or near a natural body, and you need to modify the construction area by road-building, excavation, and other methods.

Cast and Block Structures

These are not pressure tight structures, but installed by methods like casting concrete or stacking blocks

Fabricated Structures

These are from metal, wood, plastic, or other materials delivered as components to be assembled on site

Outfitting Methods

Outfitting involves installing and activating items within a larger construction element once it is in place.