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Dextre: Canadian robotics for the International Space Station

Information courtesy of NASA

Dextre is the third and final component of the Mobile Servicing System developed by Canada for the ISS. The two‐armed Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as "Dextre", complements the mobile base and the robotic arm Canadarm2 already installed and operating on the station. These make the MSS a vital tool for external station maintenance. With advanced stabilization and handling capabilities, Dextre can perform delicate human‐scale tasks such as removing and replacing small exterior components. Operated by crew members inside the station or by flight controllers on the ground, it also is equipped with lights, video equipment, a stowage platform, and three robotic tools. Size and Mass: Height: 3.67 metres Width across shoulders: 2.37 metres Arm length (each): 3.35 metres Mass (approx): 1,560 kg Performance: Handling capability: 600 kg Positioning accuracy (incremental): 2 mm Positioning accuracy (to target): 6 mm Force accuracy: 2.2 newtons Average operating power: 1,400 watts

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07-07-2011