EnGen Institute 1992 - Present
SURVIVE
Just as spacebase science and architecture enables the design of a survival system to withstand extremely hazardous
conditions and environments, EnGen’s EarthBase systemic architecture enables multi-hazard survival systems for hazardous
conditions on Earth, including pandemics, climate change and other cataclysms.
EarthBase: NASA’s SpaceSeed concept is to use a teleoperated Universal
Constructor to establish a lunar spacebase. This lunar survival system
(protective structure) with energy and communications subsystems
encloses robotic manufacturing and maintenance, life support systems
and an ecological biosphere for the inhabitants. EnGen’s EarthBase
approach uses the same constructor-based architecture but is designed
for conditions on Earth which is far simpler and easier to do.
Universal Constructor: Von Neumann’s Theory of Universal Construction,
that is ‘programmable matter’ theory is not a ‘mystery’, just advanced
systemic assembly automation (i.e. ‘lights out’ automation of general-
purpose factories having existing machine tools). The constructor
factories and an integrated library of design knowledge can be developed
in parallel. Mechanical ‘EvoDevo’, that is an evolving self-replicating
machine, is not required.
Design Staircase: EnGen has further refined the architecture, design and
implementation of NASA’s SpaceSeed concept by identifying a systemic
systems design staircase. Each level adds further advantageous design
options and behavioural characteristics. The lower steps have already
been developed and implementation of the remaining steps is achievable
with funding.
EarthBase implementation can use conventional forms, as a dome
or cylinder is only required if there is a high pressure differential.