Autonomous compact cutting tools for working under special conditions

The paper is concerned with the problem of the maintenance and repair of complex large-scale systems in space. Particular attention is given to the design of tools intended for such operations as cutting structural elements (e.g., pipes, sections, and trusses) and making holes for various fasteners. The principal requirements for such tools, when used for maintenance in the field, far from the base, are defined. These include self-sufficiency, compact size, and either manual operation or the use of an energy accumulator or a readily available power source. Some possible tool designs and power sources are briefly reviewed.