Patrick Harkness

Papers

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About

Dr. Patrick Harkness is a leading figure in the field of robotic drilling and planetary exploration, with a particular focus on the development of autonomous systems for extreme environments. His work bridges the gap between terrestrial civil engineering and space robotics, most notably through his contributions to trenchless drilling technology. In his key 2019 study, "Design and Implementation of a Control System for a Tunneling Robot," Dr. Harkness addressed the critical challenge of developing hardware robust enough to withstand the immense torques and forces generated during subterranean drilling, while simultaneously plotting optimal, maneuverable routes. This foundational work, which has garnered significant attention, demonstrates his ability to solve complex mechatronic problems for applications ranging from underground infrastructure to off-world habitat construction. Dr. Harkness’s research is characterized by a practical, systems-level approach, ensuring that theoretical advances translate into deployable, resilient hardware. His ongoing impact is evident in the growing interest in autonomous drilling solutions, where his control system designs serve as a benchmark for reliability and efficiency in non-traditional, high-stakes drilling environments.