Evaluating space station applications of automation and robotics

A methodology for evaluating and ranking different approaches to automating the functions and tasks planned for a space station is presented. Special attention is given to the impact of advanced automation on human productivity. The methodology is based on the analytic hierarchy process, which permits the introduction of individual judgments to resolve the conflict that arises when incomparable criteria underly the selection process. The overall problem is decomposed into four subproblems focusing on human productivity, economics, design, and operations, respectively. The results from each are then combined to yield the final rankings. To demonstrate the methodology, an example is developed based on the selection of an on-orbit assembly system. Five alternatives for performing this task are identified. Computational results are presented along with their implications. A final parametric analysis shows that the outcome is locally insensitive to all but complete reversals in performance.