Mass-Optimized Geogrid Structure for Regolith Shear Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Regolith in extraterrestrial environments like the Moon and Mars lacks sufficient strength and cohesion for robust construction due to its loose, fine particle nature, making conventional construction methods impractical and resource-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A mass-optimized geogrid system with precision-engineered geometries and localized reinforcement features, combined with regolith restructuring, to enhance structural performance and stability while minimizing material usage, suitable for local sourcing and deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional geogrid systems are used for regolith stabilization, then structural strength is improved, but material mass and manufacturing complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The geogrid employs variable mesh densities with different opening sizes and pattern configurations in different zones. High-density areas are placed where stress concentrations occur, while low-density areas are used where less reinforcement is needed, optimizing material distribution and reducing overall mass while maintaining required stabilization strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The geogrid is divided into modular units with standardized connection mechanisms. These segments can be assembled in a distributed manner using local regolith resources, reducing the need to transport large quantities of material from Earth and enabling incremental deployment based on actual structural requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If uniform mesh patterns are used for simplicity, then manufacturing ease is improved, but structural efficiency and mass optimization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The geogrid employs variable mesh densities with different opening sizes and pattern configurations in different zones. High-density areas are placed where stress concentrations occur, while low-density areas are used where less reinforcement is needed, optimizing material distribution and reducing overall mass while maintaining required stabilization strength.
3Stability of the object's composition
If externally sourced binders are used for regolith consolidation, then cohesion is improved, but resource dependency and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the mechanical interlocking capability of the geogrid structure itself to provide stabilization without requiring external chemical binders. The variable mesh design creates optimal friction and interlocking with regolith particles of different sizes, allowing the regolith to self-stabilize through the physical geometry of the geogrid rather than chemical bonding.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a mass-optimized geogrid system and method for stabilizing regolith and other granular soils in extraterrestrial and extreme Earth environments. Mass reduction is achieved both locally—within individual geogrid layers through optimization of lattice geometry, variable mesh density, and reinforcement at stress concentrations—and globally, by varying the spacing and distribution of layers according to structural demands. The geogrid may be fabricated from materials that are locally sourced or compositionally traceable to in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) processes in environments such as the Moon, Mars, or terrestrial polar and desert regions where conventional construction materials are limited or costly to transport. The method includes restructuring the regolith by size-sorting and compaction to produce a particle-size distribution proportionally matched to the mesh openings, enhancing mechanical interlock and shear resistance. Structural efficiency can be tuned and verified through physical testing and finite-element analysis for scalable, repeatable construction.