Doing Much with Little: HIVE A New Space Architecture

Abstract

Based on a mass producible functioning unit consisting of nested rings, HIVE is a comprehensive space mission architecture harnessing advancement in robotics, software and machine learning, precision scale manufacturing, and novel materials with multifunctional properties. HIVE explores the idea of repurposing mass to gain new functionalities as necessary during a space mission. It accomplishes this by changing shape or reconfiguring to serve the need as necessary. Examples are a hosted payload structure, a robotic arm, or a “smart” scaffold for a habitat.