Emulating On-Orbit Interactions Using Forward Dynamics Based Cartesian Motion

On-orbit operations such as servicing and assembly are considered a priority for the future space industry. Ground-based facilities that emulate on-orbit interactions are key tools for developing and testing space technology. This paper presents a control framework to emulate on-orbit operations using on-ground robotic manipulators. It combines Virtual Forward Dynamics Models (VFDM) for Cartesian motion control of robotic manipulators with an Orbital Dynamics Simulator (ODS) based on the Clohessy Wiltshire (CW) Model. The VFDM-based Inverse Kinematics (IK) solver is known to have better motion tracking, path accuracy, and solver convergency than traditional IK solvers. Thus, it provides a stable Cartesian motion for manipulators based on orbit emulations, even at singular or near singular configurations. The framework is tested at the ZeroG-Lab robotic facility of the SnT by emulating two scenarios: free-floating satellite motion and free-floating interaction (collision). Results show fidelity between the simulated motion commanded by the ODS and the one executed by the robot-mounted mockups.